Bar associations slam HC judge’s diatribe against senior lawyer

Chennai: Top bar associations in Tamil Nadu — Madras High Court Advocates Association (MHAA) and the Federation of Bar Associations of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry — have condemned the recent ‘unprofessional behaviour' of a senior judge of the high court, and his high-decibel diatribe against senior lawyer and DMK's RS member P Wilson. The associations have made representations to Chief Justice K R Shriram, seeking appropriate action.In its representation, MHAA said Wilson was subjected to unwarranted and harsh words delivered in an accusatory tone by Justice R Subramanian. "This conduct took place during arguments and caused significant distress among members of the legal fraternity," MHAA said, adding, "We feel that this level of discourse was not only unnecessary but also contrary to the standards of decorum and professionalism that courts uphold."While robust exchanges are expected in the courtroom, the manner in which Wilson was addressed by Justice R Subramanian went beyond the bounds of respectful legal argument, it added. MHAA said: "We respectfully request that this matter be reviewed, and any necessary steps be taken to rectify this situation and prevent such occurrences in the future."The Federation of Bar Associations of TN & Puducherry said it has taken note of similar language used by the senior judge towards other lawyers and litigants often. Pointing out that Madras high court video conferencing rules do not permit recording of the virtual proceedings, the federation said, "It is quite strange that such proceedings have been recorded and circulated on social media intentionally.""We request the Chief Justice to direct the Registrar (IT) of the Madurai bench of the court to order a probe into the issue," it added."…lawyers and judges are equal stakeholders in the administration of justice… few judges have a misconception that lawyers are their subordinates, and this leads them to shout, abuse, and belittle lawyers," the federation said.
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