SCBA condemns threats against retired Justice Gautam Patel and his family, calls for action
The Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) has strongly condemned the reported threats, intimidation, and acts of violence directed against retired Bombay High Court judge Justice Gautam Patel and his family.
The association expressed deep concern over media reports indicating that Justice Patel and his family have been facing repeated threats allegedly linked to a 2024 judgment delivered by him in a high-profile dispute involving the Dawoodi Bohra community.
The SCBA emphasised that any attempt to threaten or harm judges or their family members amounts to a serious attack on judicial independence and the rule of law. It stated that judicial decisions must be challenged only through lawful and constitutional means, and not through coercion, intimidation, or violence.
The development comes amid growing concern within the legal fraternity, with multiple bar associations also calling for urgent intervention and protection measures. Reports indicate that Justice Patel’s family members, including his daughter in the United Kingdom, have faced threats and even physical attacks in connection with the case.
Legal bodies have urged authorities to conduct a thorough investigation and ensure adequate security for the retired judge and his family. They have also called for swift action against those responsible for the threats.
The issue has sparked wider debate on the safety of judges even after retirement, particularly in cases involving sensitive and contentious rulings.
