Karnataka Judges Transferred Amid Collegium Decision

The Supreme Court Collegium has recommended the transfer of four judges from the Karnataka High Court, including Justice Dixit Krishna Shripad, to other high courts, aiming to infuse inclusivity and diversity at the high court level and strengthen the administration of justice.

Justice Shripad, a Permanent Judge since January 7, 2020, has been serving as an Additional Judge since February 14, 2018, and was previously the Additional Solicitor General for the Karnataka High Court. His transfer to the Orissa High Court is expected to bring his extensive experience to the court, which is witnessing significant administrative and judicial developments. The other transferred judges from Karnataka include Justices Hemant Chandangoudar, Krishnan Natarajan, and Neranahalli Srinivasan Sanjay Gowda.

The decision was made during the Collegium's meetings on April 15 and 19, 2023, as part of a broader move to transfer seven High Court judges. The transfers aim to strengthen the administration of justice and promote diversity at the high court level. However, the transfer recommendation has caused controversy at the Bar, with the Advocates Association passing a resolution to abstain from work for an hour in protest.

The Collegium's decision has sparked a debate about the need for inclusivity and diversity in the judiciary, with some arguing that the transfers will bring fresh perspectives and expertise to the high courts, while others have expressed concerns about the impact on the Karnataka High Court. The transfers are expected to be implemented in the coming weeks, and it remains to be seen how they will affect the administration of justice in the respective high courts.