Introduction
In a significant and ceremonious event, Chief Justice of India (CJI) D.Y. Chandrachud administered the oath of office to two new Supreme Court judges, Justices Nongmeikapam Kotiswar Singh and R. Mahadevan, on Thursday, July 18, 2024. This appointment returns the apex court to its full sanctioned strength of 34 judges, filling the vacancies left by recent retirements.
The Oath Ceremony
The solemn oath ceremony marked a pivotal moment as Justices Kotiswar Singh and R. Mahadevan joined the ranks of the Supreme Court, restoring its full strength after a hiatus of nearly three months. The swearing-in took place in the esteemed presence of CJI D.Y. Chandrachud, who emphasized the significance of these appointments in ensuring the judiciary’s effective functioning.
Background of the New Appointees
Justice Kotiswar Singh hails from Manipur and holds the distinction of being the first Supreme Court judge from the state. Prior to his elevation, he served as the Chief Justice of the High Court for Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. His appointment not only brings regional representation to the North-East but also underscores the court’s commitment to diversity. Justice Singh, who was set to retire on February 28, 2025, has a distinguished judicial career that has earned him this prestigious position.
Justice Mahadevan, previously the Acting Chief Justice of the Madras High Court, brings a rich background of judicial experience. His appointment reflects the Supreme Court’s dedication to fostering diversity within its ranks. Hailing from the backward community in Tamil Nadu, Justice Mahadevan’s elevation is a testament to the Collegium’s efforts to ensure a balanced and inclusive bench. His judicial acumen and commitment to justice have made him “eminently suitable” for this role, according to the Collegium’s resolution.
The Appointment Process
The process leading up to these appointments was swift and efficient. The five-member Supreme Court Collegium proposed the names of Justices Kotiswar Singh and R. Mahadevan on July 11, 2024. The government cleared the appointments within a week, demonstrating the importance and urgency of filling the vacancies. This swift action underscores the collaborative effort between the judiciary and the executive to maintain the court’s operational strength.
Significance of the Appointments
These appointments hold immense significance for the Supreme Court and the broader judiciary. The elevation of Justice Singh brings a new dimension of regional representation to the apex court, while Justice Mahadevan’s appointment reinforces the commitment to diversity and inclusion. The Collegium’s careful consideration of these appointments highlights its dedication to ensuring that the judiciary reflects the diverse fabric of the nation.
Judicial Diversity and Representation
The Collegium’s recent recommendations and appointments reflect a broader strategy to enhance judicial diversity and representation. Justice Kotiswar Singh’s appointment from Manipur is a historic milestone, ensuring that the North-East has a voice in the highest echelons of the judiciary. Similarly, Justice Mahadevan’s elevation from the backward community of Tamil Nadu signifies the Collegium’s commitment to social justice and equality.
Looking Ahead
As the Supreme Court regains its full strength, the new judges will play a crucial role in addressing the backlog of cases and ensuring the efficient administration of justice. Their diverse backgrounds and extensive judicial experience will contribute to a more holistic and inclusive approach to the legal challenges facing the nation.
Summary
The swearing-in of Justices Kotiswar Singh and R. Mahadevan marks a significant moment for the Supreme Court, restoring its full strength and enhancing its diversity. These appointments underscore the judiciary’s commitment to representation and inclusivity, reflecting the diverse fabric of India. As the new judges assume their roles, they will bring their rich judicial experience and dedication to justice to the highest court in the land.
Key Learning Points
| Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Focus Keyword | Supreme Court judges |
| Significant Event | Oath ceremony for Justices Kotiswar Singh and R. Mahadevan |
| Regional Representation | Justice Singh from Manipur, first Supreme Court judge from the state |
| Diversity and Inclusion | Justice Mahadevan from Tamil Nadu’s backward community |
| Appointment Process | Swift government clearance of Collegium’s recommendations |
| Judicial Impact | New appointments enhance diversity and operational strength |
Soumya Smruti Sahoo is a seasoned journalist with extensive experience in both international and Indian news writing. With a sharp analytical mind and a dedication to uncovering the truth, Soumya has built a reputation for delivering in-depth, well-researched articles that provide readers with a clear understanding of complex global and domestic issues. Her work reflects a deep commitment to journalistic integrity, making her a trusted source for accurate and insightful news coverage.
