Has the SC Collegium Recommended New Chief Justices for 5 High Courts?
Synopsis
In a significant move, the SC Collegium has recommended new Chief Justices for five High Courts, including the elevation of notable judges. This pivotal decision reflects the ongoing judicial reshuffling in India and sets the stage for leadership changes in the judiciary.
Key Takeaways
Justice Manoj Kumar Gupta appointed as Chief Justice of Uttarakhand High Court.
Mohite Dere recommended for Chief Justice of Meghalaya.
Chief Justice Soumen Sen to be transferred to Kerala High Court.
Sonak elevated to Chief Justice of Jharkhand High Court.
Justice Sangam Kumar Sahoo recommended for Patna High Court Chief Justice.
New Delhi, Dec 18 (NationPress) The Supreme Court Collegium, led by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant, has put forward recommendations for the appointment of judges as Chief Justices in five High Courts across the nation.
The Supreme Court Collegium, during its meeting on December 18, 2025, has suggested the elevation of judges to the position of Chief Justices in the respective High Courts, according to a statement available on the apex court’s official website.
As per the proposal, Justice Manoj Kumar Gupta from the Allahabad High Court is set to be appointed as the Chief Justice of the Uttarakhand High Court, following the retirement of the current Chief Justice G. Narendar on January 9, 2026.
Justice Revati P. Mohite Dere from the Bombay High Court has been nominated for the Chief Justice position in the Meghalaya High Court due to the transfer of the existing Chief Justice Soumen Sen.
The Collegium has also put forth the recommendation for transferring Chief Justice Sen to the Kerala High Court as its Chief Justice, succeeding Nitin Jamdar, who will retire on January 9, 2026.
Additionally, Justice M.S. Sonak of the Bombay High Court has been recommended for the Chief Justice role at the Jharkhand High Court, given the impending retirement of Justice Tarlok Singh Chauhan on January 8, 2026.
Furthermore, Justice A. Muhamed Mustaque from the Kerala High Court is also suggested for the Chief Justice position in Sikkim.
Moreover, Justice Sangam Kumar Sahoo of the Orissa High Court is recommended to take over as the Chief Justice of the Patna High Court.
In a previous meeting, the SC Collegium had also proposed the elevation of two judicial officers to judges of the Punjab and Haryana High Court.
“The Supreme Court Collegium, during its meeting on December 16, 2025, has endorsed the appointment of the following judicial officers as judges of the Punjab and Haryana High Court: (i) Shri Ramesh Chander Dimri, and (ii) Ms Neerja Kulwant Kalson,” the statement revealed on the apex court’s website.
Point of View
It's essential to note that the SC Collegium’s recommendations reflect a significant shift within the Indian judiciary. This move underscores the commitment to maintaining judicial integrity and leadership, crucial for upholding the rule of law in our nation.
NationPress
9 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the Chief Justice of India?
The current Chief Justice of India is Surya Kant.
What is the role of the SC Collegium?
The SC Collegium is responsible for recommending appointments and transfers of judges in the higher judiciary.
How many High Courts are there in India?
India has 25 High Courts, each serving a specific geographical area.
What happens after a judge is recommended for elevation?
The recommendations are sent to the President of India, who makes the final appointment.
Why is the elevation of judges important?
Elevating judges to Chief Justices is crucial for ensuring experienced leadership and stability in the judicial system.
