In a significant move, the Supreme Court Collegium has proposed the transfer of four judges from the Karnataka High Court to various High Courts across India. The judges and their new postings are as follows:
- Justice Krishna Dixit → Odisha High Court
- Justice K. Natarajan → Kerala High Court
- Justice Hemant Chandangoudar → Madras High Court
- Justice Sanjay Gowda → Gujarat High Court
The decision, finalized during Collegium meetings on April 15 and April 19, aims to promote inclusivity, diversity, and strengthen the administration of justice across the judiciary.
However, the move has stirred opposition among the legal fraternity. The Karnataka Advocates Association (Dharwad Bench), in a letter dated April 18, appealed to Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna to reconsider. Association President V.M. Sheelavant described the transfers as “retrogressive”, claiming the judges are among the “finest legal minds” known for their integrity, empathy, and legal acumen.
The Bar expressed concerns that such a move could undermine the morale of the judiciary and disrupt the functioning of the Karnataka High Court.
In addition to the Karnataka judges, the Collegium has recommended the transfer of two Telangana HC judges and one from Andhra Pradesh HC, with Justice Perugu Sree Sudha and Justice Dr. Kumbhajadala Manmadha Rao set to join the Karnataka High Court.
The transfers await approval from the President of India and the Central government before taking effect.
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