Chief Justice of India BR Gavai firmly reminded Advocate Mathews J. Nedumpara in the Supreme Court on Monday to maintain courtroom decorum, after the lawyer referred to Justice Yashwant Varma simply as “Varma” during a hearing.
“He is still Justice Varma,” says CJI
Advocate Nedumpara was urgently mentioning a writ petition seeking registration of an FIR against Justice Varma, who is currently in the spotlight over a cash recovery controversy at his official residence.
During the proceedings, CJI Gavai objected to the informal tone used by the lawyer.
“Is he your friend? He is still Justice Varma. You must address him respectfully,” CJI Gavai said.
Nedumpara Defends Tone, CJI Rebukes
Nedumpara responded by stating that Justice Varma himself filed a writ petition and insisted that an FIR must be registered, claiming there was no reason for dismissal.
However, when Nedumpara said, “I don’t think greatness applies to him,” the CJI sternly interrupted,
“Don’t dictate to the court.”
Background of the Case
This marks the third petition filed by Nedumpara in relation to Justice Varma’s alleged misconduct. The first petition, filed in March, was dismissed as the Supreme Court noted ongoing in-house inquiry proceedings. A second one was also disposed of in May after former CJI Sanjiv Khanna sent the inquiry report to the President and Prime Minister.
The court advised Nedumpara to first approach Central Government authorities regarding FIR registration.
Respect for Judicial Office Is Non-Negotiable
CJI Gavai’s response underscores the importance of respecting the judiciary, regardless of the circumstances surrounding a judge.
This incident has once again brought attention to the delicate balance between judicial accountability and maintaining courtroom dignity.
