Justice Krishnan Vinod Chandran Joins the Supreme Court

Justice Krishnan Vinod Chandran was sworn in as the newest judge of the Supreme Court of India on January 16, 2025. Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna administered the oath of office. With this appointment, the Supreme Court’s judicial strength has risen to 33, just one short of its full sanctioned capacity.

Key Details of Justice Chandran’s Appointment

Supreme Court Collegium Recommendation

• The Supreme Court Collegium, led by Chief Justice Khanna, recommended Justice Chandran’s elevation on January 7, 2025.
• The recommendation noted the absence of any judge from Kerala High Court in the Supreme Court at the time.
• Justice Chandran, the senior-most judge from Kerala High Court, ranked 13th in all-India seniority among High Court judges.

Career Highlights of Justice Chandran

Judicial Journey

• Appointed as a judge of the Kerala High Court in November 2011.
• Elevated to Chief Justice of the Patna High Court on March 24, 2023.

Previous Recommendations

• Initially recommended as Chief Justice of the Gauhati High Court in December 2022.
• This recommendation was recalled in February 2023, and Justice Chandran was instead appointed Chief Justice of Patna High Court due to multiple vacancies arising in other High Courts.

Reason for Appointment as Chief Justice of Patna High Court

• The position became vacant following the elevation of Justice Sanjay Karol to the Supreme Court.
• The Collegium emphasized Justice Chandran’s seniority, wide experience, and suitability for the role.

Justice Chandran’s Tenure and Legacy

• Justice Chandran’s tenure in the Supreme Court will extend until April 24, 2028.
• He becomes the second judge recommended by the Khanna-led Collegium, following Justice Manmohan’s appointment in December 2024.

Summary of the News