On July 3, 2024, the Ministry of Law and Justice announced a significant shift within the Kerala High Court. Justice Muhamed Mustaque Ayumantakath, the senior-most judge, is set to assume the role of Acting Chief Justice. This move follows the retirement of Justice Ashish Jitendra Desai, who will leave his position on July 4, 2024.
Justice Ayumantakath’s appointment was formalized by the President of India, leveraging the authority granted by Article 223 of the Constitution. With his new duties beginning on July 5, 2024, Justice Ayumantakath will steer the High Court through its next chapter.