Kerala HC Bar Council Raises Concerns Over Judge Appointing Law Students as Amici Curiae in NDPS Bail Matter

The Kerala High Court Advocates’ Association (KHCAA) has written to the Chief Justice objecting to Justice Bechu Kurian Thomas appointing two second-year law students as amici curiae in an NDPS bail case.

KHCAA said the move undermines practising advocates, stressing that courts are not training institutions and that only advocates, preferably young lawyers or seniors, should be appointed.

The Bar body called the appointment a “mockery” and urged incorporation of clear rules for amici under the Kerala High Court Rules, 1971.

It also proposed using members of its upcoming legal research facility to assist the Court in complex matters.