The Supreme Court Bar Association has condemned the reported threats, intimidation, harassment and acts of violence directed against former Bombay High Court judge Justice Gautam Patel and his family over a 2024 judgment in the Dawoodi Bohra succession dispute.
The Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA), headed by Advocate Vikas Singh, passed a resolution saying reports of threats and physical harm allegedly inflicted on a member of Justice Patel’s family were “deeply disturbing” and struck at the very foundation of the rule of law.
“In a constitutional democracy governed by the rule of law, judicial decisions may be challenged only through lawful remedies available under the legal framework. Disagreement with a judgment can never justify threats, violence,” the resolution said.
In April 2024, Justice Patel upheld Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin’s position as the 53rd Dai al-Mutlaq (leader) of the Dawoodi Bohra community, noting that he had a valid appointment.
The SCBA said that any attempt to threaten, intimidate or coerce a judge, whether serving or retired, or members of a judge’s family, on account of the discharge of judicial functions constituted a direct assault on the independence of the judiciary and constitutional values.
It emphasised that judicial decisions could be challenged only through lawful means available under the legal framework and that disagreement with a judgment could never justify threats, violence or intimidation.
Stressing that judicial independence is a basic feature of the Constitution, the association said judges must be able to perform their duties without fear, favour, affection or ill will.
Expressing solidarity with Justice Patel and his family, the SCBA urged authorities in India and abroad to conduct a prompt and thorough investigation into the reported incidents and ensure their safety and security.
