Aastha Pareek
The All India Bar Association (AIBA) has sharply condemned the recent outburst by Madras High Court Justice R Subramanian, which occurred during a virtual hearing regarding the Tamil Nadu Public Service Commission (TNPSC). The incident, widely circulated in a leaked video, shows the judge using harsh language towards senior advocate P Wilson, who was representing TNPSC. The exchange became heated when Wilson submitted an earlier court order, leading Justice Subramanian to reprimand the advocate for what he perceived as disrespectful conduct.
In response, AIBA expressed concerns over the breach of confidentiality in sharing court proceedings, which are protected under Madras High Court rules. They called for Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud to establish a monitoring committee to oversee virtual hearings, ensuring respectful and professional conduct. The association emphasized the need for accountability, fearing that the judge’s behavior sets a troubling precedent and may stifle advocates’ ability to raise concerns freely in court.
AIBA’s letter also pushed for clear guidelines on judicial decorum and a redressal mechanism for addressing similar instances of judicial misconduct. Multiple bar associations in Tamil Nadu have echoed these concerns, urging the judiciary to uphold a culture of respect in courtrooms, whether physical or virtual.