Sat Feb 22 15:48:07 UTC 2025: ## Madurai Lawyers Demand More Inclusive Madras High Court Judge Appointments
**Madurai, Tamil Nadu, February 22, 2025** – A signature campaign spearheaded by former Madras High Court Judge D. Hariparanthaman and senior advocates took place on Saturday at the Madurai district court. The campaign demands greater inclusivity and social justice in the appointment of judges to the Madras High Court, citing concerns over disproportionate representation from the Brahmin community.
With 11 of the High Court’s 65 judges set to retire this year, the advocates argue that the opportunity presents a crucial moment to address the existing imbalance. A letter addressed to the Chief Justice of India and the Chief Justice of Madras High Court highlights the overrepresentation of Brahmins, particularly those elevated from the Bar (27% of total judicial appointments from the Bar are Brahmin). This, they contend, contrasts sharply with the underrepresentation of significant communities like Thevars, Vanniyars, and Scheduled Castes/Tribes in the High Court. Some communities remain entirely unrepresented.
The advocates emphasized that the judiciary’s legitimacy relies on reflecting the diversity of the nation. They are not advocating against the appointment of Brahmin judges but rather for a more balanced representation that prevents the dominance of any single community. Their appeal aligns with former Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud’s emphasis on the need for diversity to build public trust. The Bar Council of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry’s calls for equal representation are also referenced in the letter. The campaign garnered support from figures like Henri Tiphagne of People’s Watch and advocate S. Vanchinathan.
First Piper 