Lawyers protest in Kerala HC, Demand public apology from judge over remarks to woman advocate

Kochi:  A rare protest erupted in the Kerala High Court on Friday as a group of advocates staged a demonstration inside the courtroom, demanding a public apology from Justice A Badharudeen over his alleged insensitive remarks to Advocate Saritha, the widow of late High Court lawyer Alex M Scaria.

The incident occurred during a hearing on March 6, when Adv. Saritha appeared before Justice A Badharudeenseeking more time to proceed with a case previously handled by her late husband. However, the judge reportedly dismissed her request curtly, stating that cases could not be delayed indefinitely.

According to her colleagues, his remarks were harsh, and his dismissive tone left her in tears.

This led to immediate outrage within the legal community, with fellow lawyers alleging that the judge's lack of empathy was unwarranted.

Protest erupts inside courtroom

In an unprecedented move, a group of lawyers blockaded Justice Badharudeen’s courtroom on March 7, demanding that he issue a public apology in open court.

While the judge expressed willingness to apologize in private, the Kerala High Court Advocates' Association (KHCAA) rejected this, insisting that his apology be made publicly.

KHCAA President Nandakumar M R stated:
"We have demanded his apology in open court. If he is not willing to do so, he should keep away from the bench."

The protesting lawyers have also warned of a boycott of Justice Badaruddin’s courtroom if he refuses to issue the apology.

Chief Justice steps in

Amid rising tensions, the Chief Justice of the Kerala High Court has intervened, calling for discussions with KHCAA representatives. Sources indicate that Justice Badharudeen will not be presiding over court proceedings for the second half of the day, signaling possible internal deliberations on the issue.

The lawyers have given Justice Badharudeen an ultimatum—either he apologizes in open court or faces a larger protest with potential legal actions. If the issue remains unresolved, KHCAA is expected to convene a general body meeting and boycott his courtroom proceedings.