Mounesh Vishwakarma
Daijiworld Media Network – Bantwal
Bantwal, Sept 4: Amid mounting legal and logistical concerns, a growing movement led by the legal fraternity is demanding the establishment of a High Court circuit bench in Mangaluru — a move that would serve lakhs of residents across Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, Kodagu, and Chikkamagaluru districts.
Addressing a press conference at Hotel Krishnima in B C Road, H V Raghavendra, president of the High Court Bench Struggle Committee, said the demand is being pursued free of political influence, driven solely by public interest and judicial necessity.
“We are fighting for a High Court bench in Mangaluru through the bar associations in a completely non-political manner,” Raghavendra said. “It is geographically the most suitable location to serve the coastal and Malnad regions.”
He noted that public opinion has already been collected, and the campaign is being intensified in collaboration with elected representatives. The committee has specifically urged the government to repurpose the old Deputy Commissioner’s office in Mangaluru to house the circuit bench.
Raghavendra highlighted the challenges faced by common people, especially from rural backgrounds, who currently have to travel all the way to Bengaluru to attend High Court hearings — often spending more on travel than on legal fees.
“The government promises doorstep delivery of services. If that’s true, then why not justice too? A fourth circuit bench of the Karnataka High Court must be established in Mangaluru to truly serve the region,” he stressed.
The committee believes the bench will not only make justice more accessible but also accelerate case disposal, reduce pendency, and support regional economic development.
“Quick resolution of cases will stimulate investor confidence and development in this region,” Raghavendra added.
He said the campaign will enter its next phase soon with rallies, public awareness drives, and legal outreach efforts. The goal is to pressure the government to make an official announcement in the upcoming state cabinet meeting and legislative session.
Raghavendra also shed light on the professional struggles faced by advocates from the region.
“Many Mangaluru-based lawyers are forced to relocate to Bengaluru due to the lack of a local bench. If established, this bench will not only ensure employment for young lawyers here but will also democratise access to justice,” he pointed out.
Prominent legal representatives from across the district were present, including Richard Costa M, president of the Dakshina Kannada District Bar Association; Vasanth Marakada, president of the Beltangady Bar Association; Jagannath Rai, president of the Puttur Bar Association; Harish B, president of the Moodbidri Bar Association; and Sukumar Kodthagoli, president of the Sullia Bar Association, among other senior members of the legal fraternity.