Delegation Led by MLC Ivan D’Souza Urges Karnataka High Court to Set Up Bench in Mangaluru

Delegation Led by MLC Ivan D’Souza Urges Karnataka High Court to Set Up Bench in Mangaluru

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, Dec 7, 2025: A delegation of advocates from the coastal region, led by MLC Ivan D’Souza, on Saturday urged Vibhu Bhakru, Chief Justice of the Karnataka High Court, to sanction a High Court Bench in Mangaluru.

The delegation met Justice Bhakru during his day-long visit to Udupi. Mr. D’Souza, who is the convener of the High Court Peetha Horata Samiti, Mangaluru, stressed the urgent need for a Bench in coastal Karnataka, citing hardship faced by litigants who are forced to travel to Bengaluru to pursue cases.

The advocates pointed out that travel becomes extremely difficult during the monsoon season due to frequent disruptions in road and rail connectivity. They also highlighted abnormal delays in the disposal of cases from Chikkamagaluru, Udupi, Dakshina Kannada and Kodagu districts as a key reason for seeking a local Bench.

Mr. D’Souza informed the Chief Justice that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah had recently expressed willingness to establish a High Court Bench in Mangaluru during his visit to the city. He said coordinated efforts by the judiciary and executive could help realise the proposal.

The delegation suggested that a circuit Bench be sanctioned initially, followed by a permanent Bench. A statement said Justice Bhakru responded positively to the demand and assured that a decision would be taken shortly.

Mangaluru Bar Association president H.V. Raghavendra, Principal District Government Pleader M.P. Noronha and representatives of bar associations from Udupi district were among those present.