Thanya Nathan to Become Kerala’s First Blind Woman Judge | 23 Feb 2026

Why in News?

Thanya Nathan is set to make history by becoming Kerala’s first visually challenged (completely blind) woman judge.

Key Points:

• Historic Achievement: Thanya Nathan will be the first fully blind woman to be appointed as a judge in Kerala’s judiciary.
• Success: She secured the top rank among persons with benchmark disabilities in the competitive Civil Judges (Junior Division) exam conducted for entry into the Kerala Judicial Service.
  • She pursued law despite visual impairment and completed her legal education with the assistance of accessible learning tools and digital support systems.
• Judicial Inclusivity: Her achievement follows a landmark 2025 Supreme Court ruling affirming that visually impaired candidates cannot be excluded from eligibility for judicial service.
  • Her appointment reflects the principles of equality and non-discrimination under Articles 14, 16, and 21 of the Indian Constitution, ensuring equal opportunity in public employment.
• Significance: Thanya’s success not only inspires persons with disabilities but also contributes to ongoing efforts to make India’s legal profession more accessible and inclusive for all.