New Delhi, July 18, 2024 — India’s judiciary reached a historic milestone today as Chief Justice N Kotiswar Singh of the Jammu and Kashmir High Court and Acting Chief Justice R Mahadevan of the Madras High Court were sworn in as Supreme Court judges. Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud administered the oath, marking the first time a judge from Manipur has ascended to the apex court.
The appointments are crucial for maintaining the Supreme Court’s operational strength of 34 judges, especially as it prepares for the retirement of Justice Hima Kohli in September. Justices Singh and Mahadevan fill vacancies left by the recent retirements of Justice A S Bopanna and Justice Aniruddha Bose.
Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal announced their appointments following recommendations by the Supreme Court Collegium on July 11. The elevation of Justices Singh and Mahadevan underscores their distinguished legal careers and contributions to jurisprudence, reinforcing the diversity within India’s highest judicial body.
The swearing-in ceremony marks a significant step towards ensuring robust judicial governance and upholding constitutional values across the nation’s judiciary.