Archive · 27 Jul 2025
Madras High Court Judge Summons Lawyer Over Bias Claims
Imagine a judge is accused of being unfair because of someone's caste.
The lawyer who made the accusation was called to the courtroom by the judge, who wanted to know if the lawyer still thought the judge was being unfair.
Some people thought the judge should not have done this because there is a special process for these types of complaints.
A group of retired judges even spoke out, saying the judge should let the Chief Justice of India handle it first, as it is against the law.
The judge is considering punishing the lawyer.
Madras High Court Justice Swaminathan summoned a lawyer who accused him of bias.
The lawyer, Vanchinathan, had sent a complaint to the Chief Justice of India alleging caste bias.
The judge questioned Vanchinathan in court about his allegations during a routine hearing.
Retired judges issued a rare public appeal for the judges to step back from contempt proceedings.
The court order stated Vanchinathan's conduct might constitute criminal contempt.
- Who
- Justice G R Swaminathan, Advocate S Vanchinathan, and other retired judges
- What
- A Madras High Court judge summoned a lawyer who accused him of caste bias.
- When
- July 24th, 2025 (hearing)
- Where
- Madras High Court, India
- Why
- The judge wanted to address the lawyer's allegations of bias.
Vanchinathan/Retired Judges
Justice Swaminathan
Judge's Actions
Vanchinathan/Retired Judges
The judge should not have initiated action against the lawyer.
Justice Swaminathan
The judge has the right to address accusations of bias made against him.
- Judge
- Justice G R Swaminathan
- Accusation
- Caste bias and ideological misconduct
- Accuser
- Advocate S Vanchinathan
- Action
- Contempt warning and summons
- Petition
- 38-page petition to the CJI