The Kerala High Court Advocates’ Association has called an urgent General Body Meeting on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, at 1:05 p.m. in the Association Hall to deliberate on a key resolution concerning the recent Constitution Bench judgment of the Supreme Court in Rajnish K. V. v. K. Deepa, 2025 INSC 1208.

The resolution, moved by Adv. Jacob P. Alex and 200 members, expresses deep concern over the Supreme Court’s ruling, which allows in-service judicial officers to apply for posts of District Judge through direct recruitment, traditionally reserved for practicing advocates under Article 233(2) of the Constitution.

The resolution notes that this judgment departs from established precedents which had upheld the dual recruitment channels promotion from service and direct appointment from the Bar. The Association fears that the ruling undermines the independence of the Bar, disrupts the 75:25 recruitment ratio between service and Bar candidates, and limits career advancement opportunities for advocates.

Accordingly, the General Body proposes to:

• File a review or curative petition before the Supreme Court seeking reconsideration of the interpretation of Article 233(2) and restoration of the 25% quota exclusively for practicing advocates as per All India Judges’ Association (2002).

• Approach the Supreme Court for permission to allow continuation of the ongoing Higher Judicial Service recruitment process of the Kerala High Court.

• Coordinate with Bar Associations across India to collectively address the issue and uphold the Bar’s distinct and vital role in the judiciary.