The Supreme Court of India collegium has taken a significant policy decision regarding the appointment and transfer of High Court Chief Justices. Under the new policy, a judge proposed to take over as Chief Justice of a High Court may be transferred well in advance — preferably two months before the vacancy arises.
The collegium, headed by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, stated that the decision aims to ensure administrative continuity and institutional efficiency. By transferring the judge ahead of time, the incoming Chief Justice will have sufficient opportunity to become well acquainted with the functioning and affairs of the respective High Court before formally assuming charge upon the retirement of the incumbent.
The apex court collegium, which met yesterday, emphasized that this proactive approach would facilitate smoother transitions in judicial leadership and strengthen governance within High Courts across the country.
In the same meeting, the collegium recommended the appointment of Justice Sushrut Arvind Dharmadhikari, currently serving at the Kerala High Court, as the next Chief Justice of the Madras High Court. The recommendation comes in view of the impending retirement of the current Chief Justice of the Madras High Court on the 5th of next month.
The decision marks an important administrative reform within the judiciary, aimed at enhancing preparedness and ensuring seamless leadership transitions in High Courts nationwide.
