Current Legal Update

3-Year Mandatory Practice Challenged in a Review Petition.

Advocate Chandra Sen Yadav has filed a review petition in the Supreme Court challenging its May 20 judgment reinstating a mandatory three-year legal practice requirement for civil judge (junior division) exams. The petition argues this rule violates Articles 14 (equality) and 16 (equal opportunity in public employment) of the Indian Constitution, disproportionately excluding recent graduates who prepared under prior eligibility criteria.

CRIMINAL LAW

Should Judges Be Exempt from Airport Security Checks?

The issue of exempting judges from airport screening depends on weighing judicial dignity against public safety. Those in favor posit that judges, being constitutional officials, are entitled to privileges similar to diplomats, in respect for their dignified position and avoiding inconvenience. Critics respond that security is not open to debate in terms of equality before the law and potential misuse or impersonation. In India, there is no express exemption in terms of aviation security regulations, although discretionary courtesies are occasionally given. International practices differ, with some countries offering exemptions. The problem highlights institutional respect versus uniform security measures, necessitating a sophisticated policy response.