A serious row has broken out in Kerala’s legal community after the Kerala High Court Advocates’ Association (KHCAA) called for the transfer of an incumbent judge for alleged lack of sensitivity to a recently widowed lady advocate. The episode has outraged all sections of the society and took place when the advocate had sought additional time to deal with a case owing to her bereavement, which was declined allegedly by the judge without due consideration.
The legal fraternity has criticized the reaction as insensitive and demanded instant action by the Chief Justice of India and the Supreme Court Collegium. Representatives of KHCAA assert that judges should maintain judicial decorum with empathy, particularly in situations dealing with personal tragedies.
This call for transfer has also fueled debates regarding judicial accountability and sensitivity in India’s judiciary. Most legal professionals opine that although discipline in courts is necessary, judges should also use discretion in a compassionate way, especially in cases of personal difficulties.
With the issue picking up steam, the KHCAA has said that it will take up the matter to a higher level if nothing is done. The Kerala High Court administration has remained silent so far, but the incident has reignited discussions on judicial behavior and increased sensitivity in the legal process.
