Supreme Court lauds Justice N Anand Venkatesh saying, “Thank God that we have judges like Anand Venkatesh in High Courts”

Today, the Supreme Court of India was hearing a plea by Tamil Nadu Minister K Ponmudi in connection to Madras High Court judge, Justice N Anand Venkatesh’s order to recall the transfer of the TN Minister’s case and his subsequent acquittal. While hearing the matter, Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud lauded Justice N Anand Venkatesh for recalling the transfer and acquittal of Ponmudi in a corruption case. CJI said, “Thank God that we have judges like Anand Venkatesh in High Courts. Look at the conduct. The Chief Justice transfers the trial from one district to another district. Where is that power? There is no administrative power to transfer the trial. It is a judicial power.” He added, “The matter is placed before someone else and the trial is hurried ending in an acquittal.” 

During the proceedings, the Supreme Court refused to interfere with the suo motu order of the Madras HC to reopen the acquittal of Ponmudi and his wife. While placing the matter before a single bench of the HC, CJI told Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal, “You argue before the High Court, that it has no suo motu power.” Further, Sibal urged, “I cannot argue for the simple reason that he has set aside the judgment of the trial court. How can the administrative order of transfer invalidate the trial court’s judgment? He says an administrative order of this nature should not have been passed. What do I have to do with it?” Moreover, SA Mukul Rohatgi who appeared for Ponmudi’s wife said, “I had nothing to do with the transfer from one district to another district. The administrative judge issued the transfer which was approved by the Chief Justice.” 

After hearing the contentions, the CJI placed the matter before another single bench of the HC and appreciated Justice Venkatesh for recalling the transfer of the TN Minister’s case.