In a significant verdict highlighting issues faced by women in India's judiciary, the Supreme Court on Friday overturned the termination orders of two women judicial officers from Madhya Pradesh, calling the state government's actions "punitive, arbitrary, and illegal."
A bench comprising Justices B V Nagarathna and N Kotiswar Singh directed the Madhya Pradesh authorities to reinstate judicial officers Aditi Kumar Sharma and Sarita Chaudhary within 15 days. Pronouncing the verdict, Justice Nagarathna stated clearly, "The termination of these two judicial officers is punitive, arbitrary, and therefore illegal."
The decision comes after the Supreme Court reserved its judgment on December 17, 2024, regarding the controversial dismissal of the two judicial officers by the Madhya Pradesh High Court. The matter first came to light when, on November 11, 2023, the apex court took suo motu cognisance of the termination of six women civil judges in the state, citing alleged unsatisfactory performance.
Subsequently, on August 1, 2024, the Madhya Pradesh High Court reconsidered its earlier stance, agreeing to reinstate four of the six dismissed judicial officers—Jyoti Varkade, Sushri Sonakshi Joshi, Sushri Priya Sharma, and Rachna Atulkar Joshi—under specified conditions. However, the reinstatement excluded Aditi Kumar Sharma and Sarita Chaudhary, prompting further judicial intervention by the Supreme Court.
The apex court's verdict not only ensures justice for Sharma and Chaudhary but also sends a strong message against arbitrary practices affecting women judicial officers across the country.