Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud Rebukes Lawyer During NEET Hearing
New Delhi: In a dramatic courtroom clash, Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud took stern action against Advocate Mathews Nedumpara, who was reprimanded for repeatedly interrupting the Supreme Court hearing concerning alleged irregularities in the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET).
NEET is a critical examination for medical school admissions across India. During the session, while Narender Hooda was presenting arguments, Nedumpara disrupted the proceedings. When questioned by the bench, Nedumpara asserted his seniority and self-designated role as “amicus,” despite the Chief Justice clarifying no such appointment had been made.
The altercation escalated when Nedumpara threatened to leave, prompting a sharp response from Chief Justice Chandrachud. The Chief Justice ordered security to remove Nedumpara, stating, “You do not have to say that, you can leave. I have seen the judiciary for the last 24 years. I cannot let lawyers dictate procedure in this court.”
Despite the confrontation, Nedumpara returned to the courtroom later, expressing regret and invoking a Biblical reference for forgiveness. This incident follows a similar reprimand in March, where the Chief Justice had previously chastised Nedumpara for his disruptive behavior during the Electoral Bonds case.
This latest incident underscores the Chief Justice’s commitment to maintaining courtroom decorum and ensuring that legal proceedings proceed without undue interruptions.