Supreme Court Declines Kerala Judges' Plea for High Court Elevation

The Supreme Court has refused to entertain a plea by two district court judges, Sadia Alvi PP and KT Nisar Ahammed, seeking consideration for elevation to the Kerala High Court. The judges claimed the high court collegium overlooked them in favor of less eligible candidates. Their lawyer withdrew the petition after the bench's dismissive remarks.

The Supreme Court on Monday declined to entertain a plea from two district court judges who argued that the Kerala High Court collegium overlooked their names for elevation to high court judges.

'What kind of petition is this... The senior officer not being considered by the High Court collegium,' remarked a bench comprising Justices Hrishikesh Roy and SVN Bhatti.

The petition, filed by district court judges Sadia Alvi PP and KT Nisar Ahammed, was withdrawn after the bench refused to permit them to pursue other remedies.

'We have allowed you to withdraw, we are not giving liberty. Otherwise, take an order of dismissal,' the bench said. Their lawyer withdrew the petition in response.

The judges argued that the high court collegium had recommended individuals who were not eligible for consideration and that they sought equality and fairness.

Citing a similar case involving Himachal Pradesh judicial officers, the petitioners argued for reconsideration.

Previously, the Supreme Court had directed the Himachal Pradesh High Court collegium to consider the names of judicial officers, Chirag Bhanu Singh and Arvind Malhotra, for elevation based on merit and seniority.

The judgement in that case has been reserved by the top court.

(With inputs from agencies.)