MK Damodaran

M. K. Damodaran was a distinguished Indian lawyer, senior advocate, and legal luminary from the state of Kerala. He served as the Advocate General of Kerala from 1996 to 2001 under the government of Chief Minister E. K. Nayanar. Over a career spanning more than five decades, he built a formidable reputation as one of Kerala’s most respected advocates, known for his legal acumen, political insight, and dedication to public service.

Early Life and Background

M. K. Damodaran was born in Thalassery, in the present-day Kannur district of Kerala. After completing his early education locally, he pursued a degree in law from the Government Law College, Ernakulam, one of the oldest law institutions in the state. His early exposure to Kerala’s socio-political environment shaped his perspectives on justice, governance, and the relationship between law and politics.
He began his professional journey in the mid-1960s by enrolling as an advocate and initially practised law at the Thalassery Bar. During this period, he was known for his active engagement with socio-political issues and his advocacy on behalf of marginalised and politically active groups. His experiences during the Emergency period (1975–1977), during which he was detained for several months, further influenced his understanding of constitutional rights and personal liberty. Following this, he relocated his practice to Ernakulam, which was emerging as a central hub for high court litigation in Kerala.

Legal Career and Professional Contributions

M. K. Damodaran rose to prominence through a series of high-profile cases that established him as a leading figure in both civil and criminal law. He handled several complex and politically significant cases that brought him statewide recognition. One of his early milestones was his defence in the Thalassery–Pulpally police station attack cases, where he represented a large number of accused individuals. His mastery of courtroom advocacy and deep understanding of procedural law earned him the respect of both peers and judges.
He was also closely associated with political litigation, particularly involving members of the Communist Party of India (Marxist). His legal practice was marked by his willingness to represent cases with strong political and social dimensions, demonstrating his commitment to causes beyond the courtroom.
In 1996, he was appointed Advocate General of Kerala, the highest legal officer of the state. During his tenure, Damodaran provided authoritative legal opinions to the state government and appeared in numerous important cases before the High Court and the Supreme Court of India. His term was noted for its professionalism, strategic litigation, and clarity in constitutional interpretation.

Style and Reputation

M. K. Damodaran was widely respected for his sharp intellect, persuasive advocacy, and ethical approach to the practice of law. His courtroom demeanour was marked by precision, wit, and clarity, which made his arguments both effective and memorable. As Advocate General, his opinions were regarded as definitive within government circles, and his interpretation of law often influenced policy decisions.
He was deeply admired by younger lawyers and students, who saw him as a mentor figure at the Kerala High Court. His contribution to the legal profession extended beyond litigation—he helped shape the professional culture of the Bar, encouraging meticulous preparation and respect for judicial decorum.

Controversies and Public Perception

Despite his stature, Damodaran’s long and politically engaged career was not without controversy. His professional association with political figures occasionally drew criticism from opponents who questioned his neutrality. Later in his life, his appointment as legal advisor to the Chief Minister of Kerala attracted public debate regarding the propriety of a former Advocate General acting in advisory capacity to an incumbent government.
Nonetheless, Damodaran maintained that his work was guided purely by legal principle rather than political allegiance. Those who knew him professionally often described him as a man of conviction, deeply loyal to constitutional ideals and committed to justice.

Legacy and Influence

M. K. Damodaran’s career reflected the intersection of law, politics, and public life in Kerala. His work highlighted how legal advocacy could influence broader social and political processes. As an Advocate General, his counsel helped shape significant government decisions and his contributions strengthened the integrity of the state’s legal system.
He passed away on 16 August 2017, at the age of 79, marking the end of an era in Kerala’s legal fraternity. His passing was mourned by political leaders, judges, and fellow lawyers, who acknowledged his lifelong dedication to justice and public service.