The Kerala High Court on Monday (November 10) observed a Full Court reference to mourn the demise of Justice K. John Mathew, who passed away at the age of 93. Justice Mathew served on the High Court bench from 1984 to 1994.
Following his retirement, he was designated as a Senior Advocate by the Supreme Court, where he continued practice in New Delhi until 2003. He later headed the Government Commission constituted to examine the environmental impact of mineral sand mining along Kerala’s coastline, served as Chairperson of the Selection Committee under the Juvenile Justice Act, and was appointed SEBI Nominee Director and Chairperson of the Cochin Stock Exchange.
The Full Court reference took place at 10:15 a.m. in the Chief Justice’s court, with judges and members of the Bar in attendance.
Chief Justice Nitin Jamdar, speaking on the occasion, observed:
“Justice John Mathew is remembered for his calm and gentle demeanour… His career reflected dedication, humility and commitment to the justice delivery system. He fulfilled his oath with sincerity and honour. May his soul rest in peace.”
Advocate General Gopalakrishna Kurup, recalling his personal experience, stated:
“He was the epitome of humility and grace. He never allowed the weight of the Bench to disturb his composure. We bow in grief at the passing of a compassionate and principled legal mind. My deepest condolences to the bereaved family.”
The Advocate General also highlighted Justice Mathew’s extraordinary disposal record, including:
• 28,221 cases disposed in 209 working days (1989) — recorded in the Limca Book of Records.
• 2,019 cases disposed in 4 days (June 1989).
• 607 cases disposed in a single day in Company Jurisdiction.
President of the Kerala High Court Advocates’ Association, Adv. Yeshwant Shenoy, recounted an incident reflecting Justice Mathew’s devotion to constitutional duty — attending the polling booth to vote immediately after completing his wife’s funeral rites.
He noted:
“The Bar has lost a teacher and exemplar; Kerala has lost a noble son. His life remains a guiding light — one of integrity, compassion and unwavering duty. May his memory continue to inspire.”
The reference concluded with two minutes of silence.
