Justice Should Not Only Be Delivered Swiftly, But With Empathy: Justice Sushrut Arvind Dharmadikari Bids Farewell To Kerala High Court

Justice Dharmadikari said that Kerala's highly active Bar and rights conscious citizenry reflected the state's vibrant democratic spirit.

“The legal environment in Kerala is distinct. It boasts an exceptionally active and vocal Bar association and citizenry that is both highly educated and acutely rights conscious. Coming from the more traditional legal atmosphere in Madhya Pradesh , I had to swiftly adapt to a culture where every administrative decision is scrutinized by vigilant civil society. This level of engagement, while demanding, reflects the robust democratic spirit of the State. ” he said.

Reflecting on his journey, Dharmadhikari spoke about the cultural transition from the Madhya Pradesh High Court at Jabalpur to Kerala. Moving from the Hindi-speaking Mahakoushal region to a Malayalam-speaking state posed initial challenges, he said, particularly in understanding local contexts in cases.

“The guidance of my brother judges was indispensable in helping me navigate these complexities,” he said.

Justice Dharmadhikari thanked the Kerala Bar for their erudition and professional ethics, calling their arguments masterclasses in precision, and expressed appreciation to fellow judges, the registry, and court staff for their support.

As he prepares to assume charge in Chennai, he acknowledged the historic legacy of the Madras High Court, one of the oldest chartered High Courts in the country.

“My goal remains unchanged, to ensure that the common man's faith in the judiciary remains unshaken and that justice is delivered not only swiftly but with empathy,” he said.

Justice Dharmadhikari concluded by saying his tenure in Kerala served as a vital bridge that helped him acclimatise to the South Indian legal and social landscape.

Justice Dharmadikari, completed his Graduation in commerce and law from Nagpur University and had enrolled in Madhya Pradesh High Court. He served as standing counsel for the Union of India from 2000 to 2015 and was appointed as an Additional Judge of the Madhya Pradesh High Court on 7 April 2016 and was made permanent on 17 March 2018. In April 2025 he was transferred to Kerala High Court and took oath as such on 23 April 2025

Chief Justice Soumen Sen, in his address, described Justice Dharmadhikari's tenure as substantial and impactful. He noted that the judge handled a wide spectrum of cases while sitting both in Single and on Division Benches, with judgments reflecting a deep understanding of law and clarity of reasoning.

“Decision making as a Judge is a demanding responsibility with both authority and restraint in the Constitutional framework . Justice Susrut Arvind Dharmadikari has always remained acutely conscious of this delicate balance as is reflected from various Judgments.” Justice Soumen Sen added.

Justice Sen described Justice Dharmadhikari as a judge known for his calm demeanour, cordial nature, and clarity of expression, qualities that earned him the affection of colleagues and the Bar alike.

The Additional Advocate General Ashok M. Cherian highlighted Justice Dharmadhikari's earlier career as an advocate. He particularly recalled Dharmadhikari's meticulous legal work for the Welfare Commissioner representing victims of the Bhopal Gas Tragedy, describing it as an example of balancing legal technicalities with the larger cause of social justice.

Peeyus A Kottam, President of the Kerala High Court Advocates' Association (KHCAA) said that Justice Dharmadhikari, despite serving for a short period, had earned the confidence and respect of the Bar through his fairness and legal acumen.