Justice K. Somashekar Appointed Chief Justice of Manipur High Court

In a significant judicial development, President of India has appointed Justice Kempaiah Somashekar, Judge of the Karnataka High Court, as the new Chief Justice of the Manipur High Court. The appointment follows the impending retirement of Chief Justice D. Krishnakumar on May 21, 2025. Justice Somashekar brings with him over three decades of judicial experience and legal service across Karnataka.

Why in News?

Justice K. Somashekar’s elevation to Chief Justice of Manipur High Court was officially announced on May 20, 2025, just days after a Supreme Court collegium, led by Chief Justice of India B.R. Gavai, recommended his name. The recommendation and appointment fill the vacancy created by the retirement of incumbent Chief Justice D. Krishnakumar.

Key Points

• Appointment Date: May 20, 2025
• Appointed by: President of India, after consultation with Chief Justice of India
• Recommended by: 3-member SC collegium headed by CJI B.R. Gavai
• Replaces: Justice D. Krishnakumar, retiring on May 21, 2025
• Announced by: Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal via X (formerly Twitter)

Justice K. Somashekar – Profile

• Began legal practice in 1990 in Mysore and Chamarajanagar (civil and criminal side).
• Appointed District and Sessions Judge in 1998 through direct recruitment.
• Elevated as Additional Judge of Karnataka High Court in July 2016.
• Became Permanent Judge in July 2018.

Significance of the Appointment

• The Chief Justice plays a pivotal role in judicial administration and in ensuring speedy justice delivery in the High Court.
• Manipur High Court, one of the newer high courts in India (established in 2013), benefits from experienced judicial leadership.
• Ensures continuity in legal oversight during sensitive times in the Northeast region.