In a pivotal move on 11th July 2024, the Supreme Court Collegium, headed by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud along with Justices Sanjiv Khanna and BR Gavai, has recommended new Chief Justices for seven High Courts, addressing both current and anticipated vacancies. The affected High Courts include those in Delhi, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Madras, and Meghalaya.
Delhi High Court: Justice Manmohan, presently the Acting Chief Justice, has been proposed for the role of Chief Justice.
Himachal Pradesh High Court: Justice Rajiv Shakdher is set to take over following Justice M.S Ramachandra Rao’s transfer to Jharkhand, subsequent to Dr. Justice Bidyut Ranjan Sarangi’s retirement.
Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh High Court: With Justice N. Kotiswar Singh’s elevation to the Supreme Court, Justice Suresh Kumar Kait has been nominated as his successor.
Madhya Pradesh High Court: The Collegium has put forward Justice G.S Sandhawalia for the position of Chief Justice.
Kerala High Court: Justice Nitin Madhukar Jamdar is recommended for the Chief Justice role.
Meghalaya High Court: Justice Tashi Rabstan is nominated to succeed Justice S Vaidyanathan, set to retire on 16th August 2024. Notably, Justice Rabstan will be the first Chief Justice from Ladakh, marking a significant milestone for regional representation.
Madras High Court: Justice K.R Shriram, a seasoned judge from the Bombay High Court, is recommended for the Chief Justice position in Madras.
These appointments reflect a strategic reshuffle aimed at strengthening judicial leadership across the nation.
