The Supreme Court Collegium, in a crucial decision taken during its meeting on March 6, 2025, has recommended the repatriation of Justice Atul Sreedharan from the High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh back to his parent High Court in Madhya Pradesh. This recommendation aims to facilitate his return to the Madhya Pradesh judiciary, where he originally served.
Justice Atul Sreedharan was initially appointed as a Judge of the Madhya Pradesh High Court on April 7, 2016. However, in early 2023, he sought a transfer, citing personal reasons. His elder daughter was set to begin her legal practice and would be appearing before the District Court and the Indore Bench of the Madhya Pradesh High Court. To uphold judicial integrity and avoid any potential conflict of interest, Justice Sreedharan formally requested a transfer.
Recognizing his concerns, the Supreme Court Collegium approved his transfer to the High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh on March 28, 2023. Since then, he has been serving as a Judge there, contributing to the judicial processes of the region.
Born on May 24, 1966, Justice Atul Sreedharan pursued his legal education and embarked on his professional journey in 1992. Early in his career, he worked under the guidance of Senior Advocate Gopal Subramanium. After gaining valuable experience, he practiced independently in Delhi before moving to Indore. Over the years, he handled a diverse range of cases, specializing in criminal, civil, and service matters. His expertise and dedication to the legal profession earned him a seat on the Madhya Pradesh High Court bench in 2016.
In a significant development, the Supreme Court Collegium has now proposed his return to the Madhya Pradesh High Court. The Collegium stated:
"The Supreme Court Collegium, in its meeting held on March 6, 2025, has recommended repatriation of Mr. Justice Atul Sreedharan, Judge, High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, to his parent High Court i.e., High Court of Madhya Pradesh."
Read Also:- Supreme Court Grants Interim Relief to Pune's Burger King in Trademark Dispute
This decision ensures that Justice Sreedharan can continue his judicial duties in his parent High Court while maintaining the highest standards of judicial propriety. The recommendation is now awaiting formal implementation by the authorities.
Justice Sreedharan’s journey in the judiciary highlights his unwavering commitment to upholding justice and ethical legal practices. His repatriation marks another chapter in his distinguished career, reinforcing the principles of fairness and judicial transparency.
