New Delhi, Apr 9: At the Karnataka High Court, the judiciary has commended the efforts of Advocate Sarah Sunny, a deaf lawyer who presented arguments in a case with the assistance of a sign language interpreter.
According to a report by Bar and Bench, Justice M Nagaprasanna expressed admiration for Sunny’s determination, highlighting the importance of recognizing such efforts.
“Counsel for (respondent-wife), Sarah Sunny has made elaborate submissions, defeating the disability of being hearing and speech impaired through the sign language interpreter. Submissions made by Sarah Sunny needs to be appreciated and the appreciation is placed on record though the submissions are through the sign language interpreter,” stated the Court’s interim order.
Previously, the Court had instructed its Registry and the Central government to provide a sign language interpreter to assist Sunny in her presentations. Today, the Court applauded both entities for facilitating such arrangements, also directing that the interpreter be compensated for her services during today’s proceedings and in future hearings.
Advocate Sunny, representing the estranged wife in a case challenging a Look Out Circular (LOC) issued over allegations of cruelty and dowry harassment, made concise arguments with the interpreter translating her sign language into verbal communication for the Court.
Looking ahead, the Court expressed its intent to delve deeper into Sunny’s submissions during the next hearing scheduled for April 19. “Let her get acquainted with the things. I will hear her elaborately on the next date,” stated Justice Nagaprasanna.
Meanwhile, Additional Solicitor General (ASG) Aravind Kamat hailed the hearing as a historic moment for the High Court. “Milord, by allowing Sarah to make submissions, your lordships have made history. Karnataka will be known in history as the first High Court which heard a hearing and speech-impaired advocate through a sign language interpreter. I understand she has appeared before the Chief Justice of India… but in terms of the High Court, this will be the first,” remarked Kamat.