Supreme Court of India | Photo: Mathrubhumi
New Delhi: The Supreme Court here on Friday removed Kerala High Court's controversial remark on Ernakulam sessions court judge Honey M Varghese in its order over a plea related to the Twenty20 activist's murder case. In the order, HC mentioned the alleged links of Honey M Varghese with CPM workers who are named as accused in the murder of Twenty20 activist Deepu in Kizhakkambalam. The bench comprising Justice Vineeth Saran and Justice KJ Maheswari made it clear that judicial officials are not authorised to make such a statement while issuing an order.
Earlier, Deepu’s father Kunjaru had accused the judge of being close to CPM based on some of her Facebook posts. He said he is afraid that he would not get justice from the judge as the matter would be under Ernakulam sessions court. Stating the same, Kunjaru approached Kerala High Court for transferring the bail plea of the accused to the Thrissur sessions court. The High Court shifted the case to Thrissur and allegations of Kunjaru were noted in the order.
Senior advocate V Giri who appeared for Honey M Varghese in Supreme Court contented that remark regarding political link was unnecessary. He also pointed out that the High Court should have taken a stand that provided immunity to the judicial officers. Meanwhile, Advocate LizMathew too appeared in SC for Honey M Varghese.
Over the contention of Honey M Varghese’s counsel, advocate Haris Beeran who appeared for Kunjara pointed out that the High Court’s remark was based on a Facebook post. While Supreme Court stated that Kunjaru’s request was considered on merit as the bench considering the bail plea was changed.
Interestingly, standing counsel Harshad V Hameed who appeared for the Kerala government did not take any stand on the matter.