Justice Kempaiah Somashekar Takes Oath as 9th Chief Justice of Manipur High Court
News Summary
On May 22, 2025, Justice Kempaiah Somashekar was sworn in as the 9th Chief Justice of the Manipur High Court during a ceremony at the Darbar Hall of Raj Bhavan in Imphal. The oath was administered by Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla. Justice Somashekar succeeds Justice D. Krishnakumar, who retired on May 21, 2025. The Supreme Court Collegium had recommended his elevation on May 15, and the appointment was approved by the President of India on May 20.
Justice Kempaiah Somashekar: A New Chapter for Manipur’s Judiciary
Early Life and Legal Journey
Born on September 15, 1963, Justice Kempaiah Somashekar began his legal career in 1990, practicing in Mysore and Chamarajanagar districts, handling both civil and criminal cases. His dedication and expertise led to his direct appointment as a District and Sessions Judge on June 17, 1998.
🏛️ Judicial Career Highlights
Justice Somashekar’s judicial career is marked by diverse roles across Karnataka:
- Additional District and Sessions Judge: Bijapur (Vijayapura) and Bangalore City Civil Court.
- Principal District and Sessions Judge: Uttara Kannada, Karwar District, Hassan, Bangalore Rural District, and Chitradurga.
- Registrar Roles: Served as Registrar Judicial and Registrar Vigilance at the Karnataka High Court
Elevated as an Additional Judge of the Karnataka High Court on November 14, 2016, he became a permanent judge on November 3, 2018.
Appointment as Chief Justice of Manipur High Court
The Supreme Court Collegium recommended Justice Somashekar’s elevation to Chief Justice of the Manipur High Court on May 15, 2025. The President of India approved the appointment on May 20, 2025, under Article 217(1) of the Constitution. He officially took charge on May 22, 2025, following the retirement of Justice D. Krishnakumar.
Manipur High Court: An Overview
Established on March 25, 2013, the Manipur High Court serves as the apex judicial authority in the state. Located in Imphal, it was carved out from the Gauhati High Court to address the specific legal needs of Manipur.
FAQs
Q1: What is Justice Somashekar’s background before his appointment in Manipur?
A: He served as a judge in the Karnataka High Court and held various judicial positions across Karnataka, including roles as District and Sessions Judge and Registrar positions in the High Court
Q2: When was the Manipur High Court established?
A: The Manipur High Court was established on March 25, 2013, to serve as the highest judicial authority in the state.
Q3: What are the primary challenges facing the Manipur High Court?
A: The court is currently dealing with a significant backlog of cases, with over 3,335 pending as of May 2025.
Q4: Who administers the oath to the Chief Justice in Manipur?
A: The Governor of Manipur administers the oath to the Chief Justice.
Q5: What is Article 217(1) of the Indian Constitution?
A: Article 217(1) pertains to the appointment and conditions of the office of a High Court judge, including the Chief Justice.
