Did Justice Ashutosh Kumar Just Become the Chief Justice of Gauhati HC?
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Synopsis
In a significant judicial development, Justice Ashutosh Kumar has been sworn in as the Chief Justice of the Gauhati High Court. This appointment follows a series of high-profile judicial changes aimed at strengthening the judiciary. Learn more about his background and the implications of this appointment.
Key Takeaways
- Justice Ashutosh Kumar has been sworn in as the new Chief Justice of the Gauhati High Court.
- The oath was administered by Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya.
- Previously, he served as the Acting Chief Justice of the Patna High Court.
- This appointment fills a vacancy created by Justice Vijay Bishnoi's elevation to the Supreme Court.
- The changes are part of a broader initiative to enhance judicial leadership across states.
Guwahati, July 21 (NationPress) Justice Ashutosh Kumar has officially taken the oath as the new Chief Justice of the Gauhati High Court on Monday. The oath-giving ceremony was presided over by Assam's Governor, Lakshman Prasad Acharya.
The event was graced by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma along with several prominent figures.
In a message posted on X, Chief Minister Sarma expressed, “I attended the oath-taking ceremony of Justice Ashutosh Kumar, who has now assumed the role of Chief Justice of the Gauhati High Court. I extend my heartfelt wishes for his tenure.”
Before this appointment, Justice Ashutosh Kumar served as the Acting Chief Justice of the Patna High Court.
This elevation is part of a broader initiative that includes multiple high-level judicial appointments and transfers recently revealed by the Union Ministry of Law and Justice.
Justice Kumar fills the position left vacant when Justice Vijay Bishnoi was promoted to the Supreme Court on May 30. Since then, Justice Lanusungkum Jamir has been acting as Chief Justice of the Gauhati High Court, which oversees the jurisdictions of Assam, Nagaland, Mizoram, and Arunachal Pradesh.
The government’s announcement also included the appointment of four other Chief Justices across different High Courts. Justice Sanjeev Sachdeva, previously the Acting Chief Justice of the Madhya Pradesh High Court, has been confirmed as its permanent Chief Justice. Justice Vibhu Bakhru has been elevated from the Delhi High Court to lead the Karnataka High Court. Furthermore, Justice Vipul Manubhai Pancholi is now the Chief Justice of the Patna High Court, taking over from Justice Ashutosh Kumar, while Justice Tarlok Singh Chauhan will now lead the Jharkhand High Court.
These appointments come following recommendations made by the Supreme Court Collegium in May, intended to address key judicial vacancies and enhance judicial leadership across various states.
Additionally, the Law Ministry has announced the transfer of four Chief Justices. Justice Manindra Mohan Shrivastava will transition from the Rajasthan High Court to the Madras High Court. Justice Aparesh Kumar Singh is being moved from Tripura to the Telangana High Court, while Justice M.S. Ramachandra Rao is shifting from Jharkhand to Tripura. Justice K.R. Shriram, currently serving at the Madras High Court, will take charge as Chief Justice of the Rajasthan High Court.
Point of View
Justice Ashutosh Kumar's appointment represents a pivotal moment for the judicial system in India. His elevation not only fills a critical vacancy but also reflects the government's commitment to enhancing judicial leadership. As this development unfolds, it is essential to monitor its impact on the judiciary's efficacy and public trust.
NationPress
21/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who administered the oath to Justice Ashutosh Kumar?
The oath was administered by the Governor of Assam, Lakshman Prasad Acharya.
What position did Justice Ashutosh Kumar hold before becoming Chief Justice?
Before this appointment, he served as the Acting Chief Justice of the Patna High Court.
Which states does the Gauhati High Court have jurisdiction over?
The Gauhati High Court has jurisdiction over Assam, Nagaland, Mizoram, and Arunachal Pradesh.
What recent changes occurred in the judiciary alongside Justice Kumar's appointment?
Several high-level judicial appointments and transfers were announced by the Union Ministry of Law and Justice.
How does Justice Kumar's appointment affect the judicial system in Northeast India?
His appointment is expected to strengthen judicial leadership and address key vacancies in the region's judiciary.
