Delhi HC Bar Questions Collegium Decision; Requests Reassessment of Justice Ganju’s Transfer
(Judicial Quest News Network)
In a notable move, a collective of 94 advocates practicing in Delhi has formally petitioned Chief Justice of India, BR. Gavai, requesting a review of the Collegium’s recommendation to transfer Justice Tara Vitasta Ganju to the Karnataka High Court. The signatories expressed concern over the decision and urged the Chief Justice to reconsider the proposed relocation.
The letter in question is signed by 94 Practising Advocates in Delhi including by Senior Advcoates Kirti Uppal Gaurav Sain and Manik Dingra
The letter states that Justice Ganju has served the Bar for 30 years with an unblemished record and has one of the highest disposal rates.
“Furthermore, the Hon’ble Judge has delivered judgements on diverse jurisprudences, be it commercial matters, rent revisions, labour matters, arbitration appeals, etc. Due to the Hon’ble Judge’s commitment and efficiency, even the Rent Revision Roster has been streamlined from two courts to now, one, showcasing how a singk: bench under the Judge’s stewardship could handle an extensive caseload with remarkable effectiveness and high disposal rate.”
The letters also commend Justice Tara Vitasta Ganju for her firm commitment to mentoring and empowering women and young lawyers within the legal fraternity. It highlights her role in fostering an inclusive and supportive environment, noting that her guidance has been instrumental in shaping the careers of many first-generation advocates and aspiring female professionals in the judiciary.
“In the above background, it is unfortunate and concerning that a judge who has contributed! immensely to impart justice is being shunted rather than appreciated. The principles of judicial independence, merit-based advancement and recognition of judicial excellence should ideally be the guiding parameters in such crucial decisions. In this context, the proposed transfer appears unwarranted 3:11d detrimental to the institutional integrity of the Delhi High Court. It will certainly be perceived as a significant loss to the judiciary.”
The letter urges the Chief Justice of India to reconsider the proposed transfer of the judge. Last week, the Supreme Court Collegium recommended the transfer of two Delhi High Court judges — Justice Tara Vista Ganju to the Karnataka High Court and Justice Arun Monga to the Rajasthan High Court. These recommendations are still pending approval from the Central Government. Meanwhile, the Delhi High Court Bar Association (DHCBA) has also written to the CJI and the Collegium, voicing concern over the recent spate of judicial transfers involving the Delhi High Court.
In its letter dated September 1, the DHCBA stated that the recent transfers have caused unease among both the lawyers practicing before the Delhi High Court and the institution itself.
“In view of the above, we humbly request that the transfer decision be reconsidered and reviewed by the Collegium, keeping in mind the larger interests of justice, judicial integrity, and public confidence m the fairness of judicial administration.” The letter states
