TV
The Supreme Court’s ruling that fresh law graduates cannot appear in judicial services examination, mandating a minimum three years of legal practice for candidates applying to entry-level posts has drawn a mixed response from the Odisha Judicial Services (OJS) aspirants in the State.
While some candidates welcome the move of the apex court by highlighting that it will help create a bond between bar and bench, some express concern.
Candidates Welcome Move
Welcoming the move, an aspirant said, “Earlier, three year legal practice was necessary for appearing judicial services examination. And now with the Supreme Court’s ruling, it will be implemented again. There is a difference between theory and practical. The legal practice is very much necessary allowing the candidates learn the procedures of the court room proceedings.”
“Besides, the three-year legal practice will allow the candidates to learn more about the BNS, BSA and BNSS,” she added.
Some Express Concern
Expressing concern over the apex court’s ruling a candidate said, “It will be a challenge for the freshers to find a suitable leadership under whom they can practice. I appeared the OJS examination last year, but cannot attend this year.”
Supreme Court’s Ruling
A bench comprising Chief Justice B R Gavai and Justice Augustine George Masih reaffirmed the importance of courtroom exposure for prospective judges and ruled that fresh law graduates cannot appear in judicial services examination, mandating minimum three years of legal practice for candidates applying to entry-level posts.
"The appointment of fresh law graduates has led to several difficulties, as noted by multiple high courts. Practical experience in court is essential for ensuring judicial efficiency and competence," the CJI said while pronouncing the judgement.
The verdict came on a plea filed by the All India Judges Association.
The CJI said allowing fresh law graduates direct entry into the judiciary has created practical challenges, as reflected in reports submitted by various high courts.
