The legal fraternity has suffered an irreparable loss with the untimely demise of Shri Tukaram Patang Mote, Civil Judge, Senior Division, Vasai, who reportedly died of electric shock at his native place in Sangli on 8 November 2026, during the Diwali festivities.
Known as a ‘No-Nonsense Judge’, Shri Mote was a judicial officer I was fortunate to appear before. He was cooperative with advocates, firm in his decisions, possessed sound legal knowledge and delivered judgments reflecting judicial wisdom. His untimely departure is a loss to the institution of justice.
His death reminds me of another promising judicial officer, Shri Anup Javalkar, Civil Judge, Senior Division, whose body was found on a railway track near Chandur Railway Station, Amravati, on 6 March 2016. Following a complaint by his brother, allegations of abetment of suicide against certain judicial officers led to criminal proceedings.
Two unfortunate departures raise an uncomfortable question: Does our judicial system adequately protect honest judges while ensuring accountability for those facing serious allegations of misconduct?
It is disturbing when officers of unquestionable professional integrity command respect, while concerns about alleged bias and misconduct among others raise questions about institutional accountability and promotions. Allegations must be investigated fairly; no one should be condemned without proof, nor protected merely by virtue of office.
The judiciary must protect its honest officers as firmly as it protects its institutional reputation. Otherwise, the greatest casualty will not be an individual judge, but public confidence in the justice delivery system.
Justice must not only be delivered by the judiciary; justice must also prevail within the judiciary.
For larger public interest:
Adv. Anil Bugde
High Court, Bombay
