In a notable appointment, former Chief Justice of the Kerala High Court, Justice S Manikumar, has been designated as the new Chairperson of the Tamil Nadu State Human Rights Commission. This decision, approved by a selection panel led by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, comes amid some controversy and opposition.
Selection and Approval
The appointment process included a selection committee comprising the Chief Minister, the Leader of the Opposition, and the Speaker of the Assembly. Despite opposition from VD Satheesan, the Leader of the Opposition, who expressed concerns about Justice Manikumar’s ability to act impartially, the panel moved forward with the decision. Governor Arif Mohammed Khan signed off on the recommendation, finalizing the appointment【213†source】【214†source】.
Background and Controversy
Justice S Manikumar has had a distinguished career, serving as the Chief Justice of the Kerala High Court until his retirement. His tenure included several high-profile cases that were subject to public scrutiny. The opposition raised concerns regarding the transparency of his appointment and his previous rulings, suggesting that the selection process was undemocratic and lacked sufficient consultation with all committee members【215†source】【216†source】.
Implications and Expectations
Justice Manikumar’s appointment to the Tamil Nadu State Human Rights Commission is expected to bring his extensive judicial experience to the forefront of human rights advocacy and protection in the state. However, the controversy surrounding his appointment highlights the need for transparent and inclusive processes in selecting leaders for such crucial roles.