Partnership Between Bench & Bar Strengthens Public Confidence: Justice MM Shrivastava Bids Farewell To Madras High Court

Speaking at his farewell ceremony, the judge thanked the members of the bar for their continued cooperation, constructive engagement and matured assistance. The judge remarked that the bench was rightly called the judge of the judge and the partnership between the bench and the bar strengthens the public confidence in the justice delivery system.

“I extend my sincere gratitude to senior advocates. Their scholarship, clarity of submissions and sense of responsibility greatly assist the court in delivering reasoned judgment. Their role as mentors to younger members f the bar ensures continuity of excellence and ethical standards in the profession. To the members of bar, I offer my heartfelt thanks. The bar is rightly described as the judges of judges. During my tenure, I consistently received cooperation, constructive engagement and mature assistance from the bar. Even in moments of disagreement, institutional dignity was maintained. Such partnership between bench and bar strengthens public confidence n the justice delivery system,” the judge said.

The judge also remarked that the institution was much larger than any individual and it is the solemn responsibility of the members of judiciary to preserve and carry forward the legacy of independence, integrity, scholarship and courage.

Highlighting the challenges that continued to plague the judiciary, the judge pointed out that mounting arrears, delays, infrastructural limitations and increasing complexity of litigation were all problems that the judiciary continued to face. The judge suggested that these issues had to be addressed with collective resolve, by filling vacancies, strengthening infrastructure, embracing technology and encouraging alternative dispute resolution mechanisms. The judge also highlighted that while digital systems like e-filing and virtual hearings had improved accessibility, it must be ensures that technology remains inclusive and accessible to all.

During his address, the judge also highlighted the work pressure that the bar and bench continued to face. The judge pointed out that heavy workload and constant pressure were not merely professional challenges that the judges, lawyers, officers and court staff faced, but it was increasingly taking a toll on their health, both physically and mentally. The judge said that long hours of sitting, continuous intellectual strain, absence of adequate rest and the stress associated with adjudication and litigation were inevitably affecting the overall well-being. The judge added that if unaddressed, these issues would not only affect individual health but also institutional efficiency.

“It is thus imperative that systemic measures be introduced to address workload management in structural manner. timely filling of vacancies, rational distribution of work, strengthening of research assistants, effective use of technology to reduce repetitive procedural burdens and creation of additional support staff are essential steps towards combating this challenge. In addition periodic health check-ups, counselling facilities, stress management initiatives and encouragement of balanced work culture can go a long way in preserving the physical and mental wellbeing of all stakeholders in the justice delivery system. A healthy judiciary and bar is indispensable for justice delivery system,” the judge suggested.

Advocating for continuous legal education, the judge also suggested setting up of permanent lawyers academy for nurturing young lawyers not only in advocacy skills but in constitutional values also. The judge highlighted that the future of the judiciary depended on the integrity and competence of the next generation.

Justice Shrivastava took oath as the Chief Justice of Madras High Court on July 21, 2025. Following his superannuation, the central government has notified the appointment of Justice SA Dharmadhikari as the next Chief Justice of the Madras High Court.