Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Apr 4: In a rare development, Supreme Court judge K V Viswanathan recused himself from a case after the hearing had concluded and the judgment was reserved, prompting the matter to be reopened for fresh consideration.

Justice Viswanathan, who had a distinguished legal career spanning over three decades before his elevation to the bench, withdrew from the case upon realising that he had previously represented one of the parties involved—Alchemist Asset Reconstruction Company Pvt Ltd (AARC)—during his time as an advocate.

The case had been heard by a bench comprising Justice Viswanathan and J B Pardiwala, which had reserved its verdict on March 17. However, after the conflict of interest came to light, Justice Viswanathan promptly stepped aside from the proceedings.

Following the recusal, the bench formally recalled its earlier order reserving judgment and directed that the matter be placed before the Chief Justice of India for reconstitution of a new bench.

In its order, the court noted that the judge had previously appeared as counsel for the appellant during the corporate insolvency resolution process, making it appropriate for him to withdraw to maintain judicial propriety.

The case will now be heard afresh by a newly constituted bench, ensuring adherence to principles of fairness and impartiality in the judicial process.