In a significant development for the legal fraternity, the Supreme Court of India has designated seven former High Court judges as Senior Advocates. This includes former judge of J&K High Court Vinod Chatterji Koul. The move reflects on the evolving contours of legal practice and the continued role of retired judges in shaping courtroom discourse.
The decision was taken at a full court meeting of the Supreme Court held on March 18 and chaired by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant. The Chief Justice of India and companion judges considered the designation of eligible candidates under the Supreme Court’s framework for senior advocates.
According to an official notification issued on March 19, the retired judges have been designated as Senior Advocates, effective immediately:The list includes:Justice Anupinder Singh Grewal (Punjab & Haryana High Court),Justice Harsha Nathalal Devani (Gujarat High Court),Justice Mauna M. Bhatt (Gujarat High Court),Justice M.S. Ramesh (Madras High Court),Justice R.N. Manjula (Madras High Court),Justice Umesh Chandra Dhyani (Uttarakhand High Court), and Justice Vinod Chatterji Koul (J&K and Ladakh High Court).
The designation acknowledges their judicial contributions and allows them to appear as Senior Advocates before courts.
Pertinently, Justice Koul’s inclusion in the list(J&K HC) has been welcomed in the legal circles across UT where he is known for his judicial acumen and contribution to the bench during his tenure. The designation of senior advocate is seen as a mark of distinction conferred upon advocates who have demonstrated exceptional legal expertise, standing and contribution to the field.
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