‘Judge Expressing Strong Opinion During Hearing Doesn’t Mean Prejudice’: Madras High Court Refuses Recusal

The Madras High Court rejected a recusal application where a party alleged bias because the judge had expressed strong views during the hearing. The court held that articulation of an opinion during proceedings does not by itself demonstrate prejudice nor deny a fair hearing. The ruling emphasises that mere expression of strong viewpoints is not sufficient ground for recusal unless actual bias or incapacity to adjudicate emerges, thereby curbing litigants’ misuse of recusal pleas for delay or strategic advantage.