The Kerala High Court convened a full court reference on Friday to honor Justice MB Snehalatha, who is set to retire on May 31, 2026, upon reaching the age of superannuation. In her farewell speech, Justice Snehalatha reflected on her career, describing her role as a judge as the greatest honor of her life. She emphasized the profound responsibility associated with making decisions that impact lives, liberties, and the rights of individuals.
“The judicial journey is unlike any other profession. Every day brings questions affecting the lives, liberties, rights, and aspirations of people. To have been entrusted with such responsibility has been the greatest honor of my life,” Justice Snehalatha remarked.
She further expressed her commitment to maintaining the trust that litigants place in the judiciary, highlighting the importance of integrity, patience, and impartiality in her work. Justice Snehalatha also discussed the vital role that lawyers play in the justice system, stating, “A judge can perform effectively only with the assistance of a responsible and enlightened Bar. The quality of justice delivered by any court depends greatly on the assistance rendered by the legal fraternity.”
The farewell event was attended by several dignitaries, including judges of the Kerala High Court, Advocate General Jaju Babu, Additional Solicitor General P Sreekumar, Director General of Prosecution Asaf Ali, and members of the Bar. Advocate General Babu praised Justice Snehalatha for her humility, patient hearing of cases, and her deep understanding of legal and social issues.
KHCAA President Peeyus A Kottam lauded Justice Snehalatha’s short but impactful tenure as a High Court Judge, highlighting her patience and fairness. Justice Nambiar noted her as a trailblazer and expressed concern over her retirement, which will reduce the representation of women in the Kerala High Court, currently operating with 37 judges.
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Justice Snehalatha’s legal career began after completing her education at St Teresa’s College, Ernakulam, and obtaining her LLB from Government Law College, Ernakulam, followed by an LLM from Mahatma Gandhi University. She was admitted to the Bar in 1989 and served in various capacities, including as a District Judge, before being appointed as an Additional Judge of the Kerala High Court in 2024 and later a Permanent Judge in 2026.
