The Supreme Court Advocates-on-Record Association (SCAORA) has strongly condemned the alleged threats and targeted social media campaign against Ms. Tabassum Khan, Additional District and Sessions Judge, Madhya Pradesh, following the discharge of her judicial duties.

In a statement issued on July 1, SCAORA asserted that judicial orders must be challenged before appellate courts and not through intimidation, vilification or threats against judges. The Association warned that attempts to make judges fear personal consequences for their decisions strike at the very foundation of judicial independence and the rule of law, and could adversely affect the functioning of the district judiciary.

Emphasising that the district judiciary forms the backbone of the justice delivery system, SCAORA said judicial officers must have the assurance that they can discharge their duties without fear or intimidation. The Association expressed solidarity with Judge Tabassum Khan and urged that all necessary steps be taken to ensure her safety while safeguarding the independence and dignity of every judicial officer.