SCAORA Condemns Threats Against MP Judge Who Punished Cow Vigilantes In Lynching Case

The Supreme Court Advocates-on-Record Association (SCAORA) on Wednesday strongly condemned the threats and targeted social media campaign against Madhya Pradesh Additional District and Sessions Judge Ms. Tabassum Khan, stating that judicial orders must be challenged before appellate courts and not through intimidation or vilification of judges.

The judge was subjected to communal attacks after she delivered a judgment sentencing seven cow vigilantes to life imprisonment for lynching a truck driver in 2022.

The Association said it "unequivocally condemns" the threats directed at Judge Khan following the discharge of her judicial duties.

"Judicial orders are to be challenged before appellate courts, not through intimidation, vilification or threats against judges," the statement said.

SCAORA warned that such conduct strikes at the very foundation of judicial independence and the rule of law.

"If judges are made to fear personal consequences for decisions rendered in accordance with law, it can have a serious negative impact on the independence and functioning of the district courts," the Association said.

Emphasising the importance of the district judiciary, SCAORA described it as the backbone of the country's justice delivery system, noting that judicial officers routinely decide difficult and sensitive matters.

"It is important that members of the district judiciary have the reassurance that they will be able to discharge their judicial functions without fear or intimidation, and that the institutional framework remains committed to protecting their independence," the statement added.

The Association also expressed solidarity with Judge Tabassum Khan and voiced hope that all necessary measures would be taken to ensure her safety while safeguarding the independence and dignity of every judicial officer.

"The Association stands in solidarity with the learned Judge and expresses the hope that all necessary steps will be taken to ensure her safety and to uphold the independence and dignity of every judicial officer," the statement said.