New Delhi, May 20 (HS): The Supreme Court has reinstated the requirement of three years of experience in advocacy for becoming a judge. This decision was pronounced by a bench headed by Chief Justice BR Gavai.

The apex court stated that the experience in advocacy will be valid from the formal enrollment date of the lawyer. This order will not apply to those High Courts that have already begun the process of appointing judges before today. After today, three years of experience will be mandatory.

It is noteworthy that initially, three years of experience as a lawyer was essential for appointment to the position of judge. In 2002, the Supreme Court abolished the requirement of three years of experience, allowing new law graduates to apply for the position of judge.

The Supreme Court had reserved its decision in this matter on January 28. Amicus Curiae Siddharth Bhatnagar raised questions regarding the concession for new law graduates to apply for the position of judge. During the hearing, most High Courts advocated for reinstating the minimum three years of experience. Only the Sikkim and Chhattisgarh High Courts supported the concession for new lawyers to apply for appointment as judges.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar