New Delhi / Gangtok: The Government of India has formally notified the appointment of Justice A. Muhamed Mustaque Ayumantakath as the Chief Justice of the Sikkim High Court, marking a key judicial transition in the northeastern Indian state.
The notification issued by the Ministry of Law and Justice on January 3, 2026, follows the recommendation of the Supreme Court Collegium and the exercise of powers under Article 217 of the Constitution of India.
Details of Justice A Muhamed Mustaque Appointment
In an official document released by the Department of Justice, Government of India, the Centre sanctioned the elevation of Justice Mustaque — hitherto a judge of the Kerala High Court — to serve as Chief Justice of the Sikkim High Court with effect from the day he assumed office.
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The appointment was made by the President of India, in consultation with the Chief Justice of India, acting on the Collegium’s recommendation.
Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Law and Justice Arjun Ram Meghwal announced the appointment on social media platform X, underlining the government’s commitment to bolstering judicial leadership across all high courts.
Justice A Muhamed Mustaque Appointment: Swearing-in Ceremony in Gangtok
Justice A. Muhamed Mustaque was sworn in as the Chief Justice of the Sikkim High Court on January 4, 2026 at a ceremony held in Gangtok’s Lok Bhawan. The oath of office was administered by Governor Om Prakash Mathur in the presence of sitting judges of the High Court and other dignitaries.
His elevation brings formal leadership stability to Sikkim, where the High Court at times has functioned with acting chief justices due to vacancies.
Who is Justice A. Muhamed Mustaque
Justice A Muhamed Mustaque is currently the Chief Justice of Sikkim High court, here is the following details of him;
Born: June 1, 1967, in Thana, Kannur district, Kerala.
Education: LL.B. from Vaikunta Baliga College of Law, Udupi, Karnataka
LL.M. in Labour Law from Mahatma Gandhi University, Kerala
Additional qualifications in space & telecommunication law (Paris XI University), private international law (The Hague Academy), and advanced intellectual property courses through WIPO.
Professional and Judicial Career of Justice A Muhamed Mustaque
Justice Mustaque began his legal practice in 1989, serving as an advocate in various courts and tribunals in Kerala.
During his practice, he developed expertise in litigation, arbitration, and mediation processes.
He served as standing counsel for Kannur University and participated in legal academia and alternative dispute resolution initiatives.
Judicial career milestones include:
- Additional Judge, Kerala High Court: Appointed January 23, 2014
- Permanent Judge: From March 10, 2016
- Acting Chief Justice, Kerala High Court: July 5 to September 21, 2024
- Chairman, Computerisation Committee of the Kerala High Court since 2019.
His elevation to the Chief Justice of Sikkim High Court underscores his extensive judicial experience and administrative capabilities.
