Judge only as good as the Bar’s assistance: Madras High Court Chief Justice SA Dharmadhikari

Newly sworn-in Madras High Court Chief Justice Sushrut Arvind Dharmadhikari on Friday spoke on the critical role played by the legal fraternity in the administration of justice, stating that a judge’s effectiveness depends greatly on the assistance received from lawyers.

Addressing members of the Bar after assuming office as the 55th Chief Justice of the Madras High Court, Justice Dharmadhikari said the Bench and the Bar must work together to uphold the dignity and effectiveness of the justice delivery system.

“The Bench and the Bar are often described as two wheels of the same chariot. However, I prefer to see us as partners in the quest. A judge is only as good as the assistance they receive from the Bar,” he said.

Justice Dharmadhikari outlined three priorities for his tenure - reducing case pendency, strengthening technology in the justice system and empowering young lawyers.

On the issue of pendency, he stressed the need for collective responsibility to ensure that the justice system remains efficient and responsive.

“(Regarding) reduction of pendency - we must work together to ensure that justice delayed is justice denied remains a warning we heed, not a reality we accept,” he said, urging lawyers to avoid unnecessary adjournments and curb fruitless litigation.

He also highlighted the importance of modernising court processes through technology to improve accessibility for litigants.

“We will continue to modernise our systems, making the court more accessible to the common litigant through e-filing and hybrid hearings,” the Chief Justice said, adding that digitisation and simplified procedures would help create a more citizen-centric justice delivery system

Justice Dharmadhikari further emphasised the need to nurture younger members of the legal profession.

“The future of this institution lies in the hands of its young advocates,” he said, expressing confidence that the court would foster an environment where junior lawyers are encouraged and mentored.

Speaking about the responsibility of his new office, Justice Dharmadhikari said that leading one of India’s oldest chartered High Courts was both a professional milestone and a solemn responsibility.

“The institution is greater than any individual and rests upon independence, transparency and public confidence,” he said, adding that he would discharge his duties without fear or favour, affection or ill will.

Justice Dharmadhikari also expressed gratitude to the Supreme Court Collegium, thanking Chief Justice of India Justice Surya Kant, along with Justices Vikram Nath and JK Maheshwari, for their support in recommending his appointment.

Earlier, welcoming the new Chief Justice, Advocate General PS Raman highlighted Justice Dharmadhikari’s legal career, noting that he began practice in 1992 under his uncle and former Advocate General of Madhya Pradesh YS Dharmadhikari.

Justice Dharmadhikari was elevated as a judge of the Madhya Pradesh High Court in April 2016 and was later transferred to the Kerala High Court in April 2025, before being appointed Chief Justice of the Madras High Court.

He succeeds Justice Manindra Mohan Shrivastava, who retired earlier this week.