State Bar Council writes to CJI, demands action against CJ

The council has submitted a written complaint to the Chief Justice of India JS Kehar Justice Mukherjee allegedly made unnecessary and casual remarks in the open court embarrassing the legal community The council has taken objection to his style of functioning that is allegedly affecting the court administration

Taking objection to Karnataka Chief Justice SK Mukherjee's "style of functioning", the State Bar Council has complained against him to the Chief Justice of India Justice JS Kehar.

In a written complaint submitted to the CJI Kehar - on August 4 - the Council said that Justice Mukherjee's style of functioning is hampering the court administration and also affecting in dispensation of justice. State Bar Council former head and current member Subhash Kowdichar told Newsable that "Justice Mukherjee's casual and unnecessary remarks in open court are not keeping in dignity and decorum of the court." Besides, Justice Mukherjee's alleged repeated reference to the names, castes and communities of the advocates presenting the case has caused much embarrassment to the legal community. The council has further complained that Justice Mukherjee has also allegedly stated in an open court that "People in Karnataka are fixated with caste and communities. "These remarks have embarrassed the legal community," said Kowdichar quoting the letter.

Besides, the council has complained that the Chief Justice does not give due attention to the court administration either due to his indifference or lack of interest in it. "No court proceedings happen post 1.30 pm at the Court Hall no 1 - where Justice Mukherjee sits - and this is belittling the temple of Justice. Also, it has eroded the confidence of the lawyers and tarnished the image of the Karnataka High Court," said Kowdichar.

The council has demanded prompt action against chief justice Mukherjee.