In a significant development for the legal community in coastal Karnataka, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has pledged to take up the long-standing demand for a circuit bench of the High Court in Mangaluru with the state's Chief Justice. The assurance came during a meeting with a delegation of lawyers from the region on Wednesday.
Delegation Presents Case for Coastal Justice
A delegation representing lawyers from the coastal districts met with the Chief Minister to formally request the establishment of a circuit high court bench in Mangaluru. The group highlighted the necessity of such a bench to ensure faster and more accessible justice for the people of the region. MLC Ivan D'Souza, who serves as the coordinator of the High Court Bench Action Committee, led the appeal, emphasizing the need for swift justice delivery.
Raghavendra HV, the President of the Mangalore Bar Association, quoted the Chief Minister's response. "Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is aware that there is a necessity for a circuit high court bench in Mangaluru," Raghavendra stated. He further added that the CM promised to make a sincere effort to establish the bench by discussing the matter with the Chief Justice of the Karnataka High Court.
Positive Assurance from the Chief Minister
According to MLC Ivan D'Souza, the Chief Minister reacted positively to the delegation's request. Siddaramaiah assured the group that an appropriate decision would be taken following his discussion with the Chief Justice. This move is seen as a crucial step forward in a demand that has persisted for years, aimed at reducing the burden on the principal bench in Bengaluru and serving the legal needs of the coastal population more effectively.
Bar Association Announces Sporting Events
In a separate but related note, the Mangalore Bar Association is gearing up to host district-level sports events for its members. On December 13 and 14, the association will organize cricket and throwball matches at the NMPT Grounds in Panambur. Lawyers from various bar association branches across Dakshina Kannada district are expected to participate.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah released the official poster for these sporting events and extended his best wishes for their success. Raghavendra HV confirmed the details of the events, which aim to foster camaraderie among legal professionals in the district.
