On January 6, 2024, the Union government notified the appointment of two advocates, Ajay Digpaul and Harish Vaidyanathan Shankar, as judges of the Delhi High Court. The appointments were made following the recommendation of the Supreme Court collegium, which had, on August 21, 2024, approved the proposal to elevate three advocates to the High Court bench.
While the Centre has cleared the names of Digpaul and Shankar, the appointment of Advocate Shwetasree Majumder, who was also part of the same resolution, has not yet been approved. The collegium’s recommendation aimed to fill existing vacancies in the Delhi High Court and strengthen its judicial capacity. However, the delay in clearing Majumder’s appointment highlights the ongoing challenge of timely approvals in judicial appointments, an issue that has drawn significant attention in recent years.
Ajay Digpaul and Harish Vaidyanathan Shankar are experienced legal practitioners, known for their contributions to various high-profile cases. Meanwhile, the legal fraternity is keenly watching the Centre’s next move regarding Shwetasree Majumder’s pending appointment.