Is Justice K. Somashekar the Next Chief Justice of Manipur HC?
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Synopsis
The Supreme Court Collegium has made a significant recommendation for the appointment of Justice Kempaiah Somashekar as the Chief Justice of the Manipur High Court. With his extensive experience and judicial background, this decision marks an important transition for the court.
Key Takeaways
- Justice Kempaiah Somashekar recommended as Chief Justice of Manipur HC.
- Appointment follows D. Krishnakumar's retirement on May 21.
- Justice Somashekar has extensive judicial experience.
- Memorandum of Procedure governs the appointment process.
- The CJI collaborates with senior judges in recommending appointments.
New Delhi, May 15 (NationPress) The Supreme Court Collegium has proposed the appointment of Justice Kempaiah Somashekar as the Chief Justice of the Manipur High Court, following the retirement of the current Chief Justice D. Krishnakumar on May 21. The announcement came during the Collegium's meeting on May 15, 2025, where they stated, "The Supreme Court Collegium has recommended the appointment of Mr. Justice Kempaiah Somashekar, Judge of the High Court of Karnataka, as the Chief Justice of the High Court of Manipur, consequent upon the retirement of Mr. Justice D. Krishnakumar on May 21, 2025."
Justice Somashekar, born on September 15, 1963, commenced his judicial career as an additional judge of the Allahabad High Court in November 2016 and became a permanent judge of the Karnataka High Court in November 2018.
He was appointed directly as a District and Sessions Judge on June 17, 1998, serving in various capacities including Additional Districts and Sessions Judge in Bijapur (Vijayapura) and the City Civil Court in Bangalore. He also held the position of Principal District and Sessions Judge in multiple districts including Uttara Kannada, Karwar, and Hassan.
Justice Somashekar has also served as Registrar Judicial and Registrar Vigilance for the Karnataka High Court, and practiced law in Mysore and Chamarajanagar before his elevation to the bench, focusing on both civil and criminal matters.
As per the Memorandum of Procedure (MoP) governing High Court judges' appointments, the Chief Justice of India (CJI) initiates the recommendation for appointing a High Court Chief Justice. The appointment process is expected to commence well in advance to ensure it's concluded at least one month prior to the vacancy.
The CJI consults with the two senior-most judges of the Supreme Court, known as the Collegium, to send a recommendation for the Chief Justice appointment. The CJI also considers the views of the senior-most colleague knowledgeable about the affairs of the concerned High Court to assess the candidate's suitability.
Upon receiving the Collegium's recommendation, the Union Minister of Law and Justice seeks the state government's opinion. Following this, the Minister presents proposals to the Prime Minister, who then advises the President on the selection. Once the President approves the appointment, the Department of Justice will announce it and publish a notification in the Gazette of India.
Point of View
I observe the Supreme Court Collegium's recommendation of Justice Somashekar as a strategic move to ensure experienced leadership in the Manipur High Court. His extensive judicial background positions him well to address the challenges faced by the court, fostering trust and confidence in the legal system. We stand by the integrity and progress of our judiciary.
NationPress
25/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Justice Kempaiah Somashekar?
Justice Kempaiah Somashekar is the Judge of the High Court of Karnataka and has been recommended for appointment as the Chief Justice of the Manipur High Court.
When will Justice D. Krishnakumar retire?
Justice D. Krishnakumar is set to retire on May 21, 2025.
What positions did Justice Somashekar hold prior to this recommendation?
Justice Somashekar held several roles, including Additional Districts and Sessions Judge and Principal District and Sessions Judge, prior to his appointment as a Judge of the Karnataka High Court.
What is the process for appointing a Chief Justice in India?
The Chief Justice of India initiates the recommendation, which is then reviewed and approved by the Supreme Court Collegium before being forwarded to the Union Minister of Law and Justice.
What is the Memorandum of Procedure (MoP)?
The Memorandum of Procedure outlines the guidelines for the appointment of High Court judges in India, ensuring a systematic process.
