New Delhi: The Chief Justice of India, Justice Suryakant, on Thursday voiced concern that “parasites” in society are attempting to damage the judicial system, while hearing a petition linked to senior advocate designation.
The matter arose from a lawyer’s plea in the Supreme Court alleging that senior status had not been granted by the Delhi High Court. The case was heard by a bench led by the CJI along with Justice Bhakshi.
During the hearing, the CJI told the petitioner that senior designation is not an entitlement and warned that even if a High Court were to confer such status, it could be withdrawn based on conduct. Justice Bhakshi also questioned whether seeking confirmation of seniority was the petitioner’s only grievance, stressing that the recognition is granted by the court and should not be demanded.
The CJI further remarked that the petitioner should first pursue a contempt case and then approach the court, adding that filing baseless cases made the petitioner unfit for any senior designation. The petitioner later apologised and sought withdrawal of the earlier order.
Accepting the apology and recalling the earlier direction, the CJI said there were doubts about the authenticity of certain titles held by some Delhi-based lawyers, citing their social media posts on platforms such as Facebook and YouTube. He added that the court was awaiting an appropriate case for the CBI to examine the issue, and dismissed the petition, cautioning against aligning with those who attack the judiciary.
