The judicial roster of the Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh High Court has been reinforced, with three additional judges securing permanent status. The Central government has greenlit the appointments of Justice Wasim Sadiq Nargal, Justice Rajesh Sekhri, and Justice Mohammad Yousuf Wani, bolstering the court’s judicial ranks.
The Supreme Court Collegium had approved their elevation on March 5, and the final nod arrived today, filling critical positions in a court that continues to operate below its sanctioned strength of 25 judges—currently functioning with just 15.
Justice Wasim Sadiq Nargal holds a historic distinction as the first Muslim judge from the Jammu region to serve in the High Court. Initially recommended for the role in 2017, his appointment as an additional judge was formalized in 2022.
Justice Rajesh Sekhri, who took oath as an additional judge in July 2024, brings decades of judicial experience, having served as a District and Sessions Judge and as a judicial member of the J&K Special Tribunal.
Justice Mohammad Yousuf Wani, whose legal career began in 1990, has steadily ascended through the judiciary, holding key positions before being appointed as an additional judge in March 2024.
With these appointments, the High Court edges closer to its full sanctioned strength, though vacancies remain. The judicial system in the region continues to evolve, with efforts to ensure a more robust and efficient legal framework.
