The Supreme Court asked the Madhya Pradesh High Court to reassess its earlier decision to terminate the services of six women civil judges, highlighting significant judicial scrutiny over the state’s judicial appointments and evaluations. The directive was issued by a bench comprising Justices BV Nagarathna and N Kotiswar Singh, emphasizing the need for a thorough reexamination within a month.
In January, the Supreme Court had taken suo motu cognizance of the matter after the termination of these judges by the Madhya Pradesh government, based on a recommendation from the High Court. The terminations were reportedly due to unsatisfactory performances during their probation periods, as determined by an administrative committee and subsequently endorsed by a full court meeting.
The bench has appointed Senior Advocate Gaurav Agrawal as Amicus Curiae to provide expert insight into the case and aid the court’s understanding. Notices were also sent to the Madhya Pradesh High Court to explain the rationale behind their decision.
During the latest hearing, the Amicus urged the High Court to reconsider its decision, prompting the Supreme Court to order a fresh review of the cases. “We request the full court of the Madhya Pradesh High Court to reconsider the cases of these judicial officers. On reconsideration, a copy of the resolution be placed before this court preferably within four weeks,” the Supreme Court mandated.
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This case has drawn attention to the processes of judicial evaluation and the implications of administrative decisions on the careers of judges, particularly in the context of gender. The final decision, pending the High Court’s reevaluation, could have broader implications for judicial administration and the treatment of judges in the Indian legal system.
