Kerala lawyers oppose Supreme Court verdict on direct recruitment of judicial officers as District Judges

Kerala lawyers have strongly opposed the Supreme Court's verdict allowing direct recruitment of judicial officers as District Judges, arguing it undermines the career progression of advocates practising in lower courts.

According to the lawyers, the Constitution intentionally demarcates two distinct streams for recruitment to the district judiciary, by promotion from subordinate judicial service or by direct recruitment from the Bar.

The bar associations contend that the judgment disadvantages experienced lawyers by creating parallel appointment channels, potentially affecting the quality and diversity of the higher judiciary.

They have also requested the KHCAA to approach the Supreme Court seeking permission to continue the ongoing recruitment process to the Kerala district judiciary.