Bar Council Calls for Inclusive Representation in Madras High Court Appointments
Last Updated on January 9, 2025 by Athi Venkatesh
The Bar Council of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry has urged the Supreme Court Collegium to prioritize inclusive representation in judicial appointments to the Madras High Court. The High Court currently operates with 66 judges against a sanctioned strength of 75. With several senior judges retiring soon, the Council anticipates significant vacancies.
In a letter signed by Chairman PS Amalraj and Vice Chairmen S Prabhakaran and V Karyhikeyan, the Council asked the Collegium to consider eligible aspirants from all sections of society. The letter emphasized that diversity is crucial in a democracy like India. It stated that candidates from various castes, creeds, and religions who meet constitutional eligibility must have equal opportunities for elevation.
The Council cited the Supreme Court ruling in Registrar General, High Court of Madras v. R. Gandhi. The judgment underscored the need to avoid exclusivity and maintain diversity in judicial appointments. The ruling highlighted that legal expertise and qualitative personality should guide selections.
The Council’s letter also stressed the importance of including minority groups in appointments. It argued that this approach would promote socio-economic justice and social diversity in the higher judiciary.
The Council called for urgent action from the Collegium to fill the expected vacancies while upholding the principles of inclusivity and equality.
