Shreya Gupta
The Kerala High Court Advocates’ Association (KHCAA) convened a special meeting on 10th March 2025 (Monday), during which it passed a Resolution demanding the transfer of Justice A. Badharudeen out of Kerala. The Controversy stemmed from an incident earlier in the month when a Lady Advocate sought additional time to change the vakalath, as her husband, Advocate Alex M. Scaria, had passed away in January. Justice Badharudeen allegedly responded curtly, which left the advocate in tears and triggered widespread outrage among KHCAA members.
As a result, on 7th March 2025 (Friday), KHCAA called for a boycott of Justice Badharudeen’s Court and insisted on a public apology. In an effort to resolve the situation, Chief Justice A.J. Thomas initiated conciliation talks, and Senior Advocate George Poonthottam, who had led the boycott call, participated in these discussions. The Chief Justice also met with the affected lawyer, following which she wrote to KHCAA stating that the matter did not need further pursuit and requested that any contemplated actions on the issue be dropped.
Subsequently, Justice Badharudeen expressed deep regret in the presence of the Chief Justice. However, despite this Resolution, KHCAA President Yeshwanth Shenoy, who was not invited to the meeting with the Chief Justice, expressed his discontent in a letter to KHCAA members. He then convened a special meeting on Monday morning, where a resolution was passed to formally request the Chief Justice of India to transfer Justice Badharudeen out of Kerala.
Although proceedings resumed in Justice Badharudeen’s Court on Monday, KHCAA persisted with its resolution demanding his transfer. Additionally, the Association decided to suspend and initiate disciplinary proceedings against Senior Advocate Poonthottam for his involvement in the conciliation process. Furthermore, KHCAA reiterated its demand for mandatory video recording of court proceedings, emphasizing the necessity of this measure to ensure transparency and accountability.
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