Kolkata: The Justice Tapabrata Chakraborty Acting Chief Justice of Calcutta High Court appointment has been officially notified by the Union Government. The appointment comes after the retirement of Chief Justice Sujoy Paul on June 20, 2026. The notification was issued by the Ministry of Law and Justice under the powers granted by Article 223 of the Constitution of India.
The move ensures continuity in the administration and functioning of one of India’s oldest and most important High Courts.
Details of Justice Tapabrata Chakraborty Appointment
According to the official notification issued by the Department of Justice, Ministry of Law and Justice, the President of India has appointed Justice Tapabrata Chakraborty to perform the duties of the office of the Chief Justice of the Calcutta High Court. The appointment took effect following the retirement of Chief Justice Sujoy Paul. The notification was issued on June 19, 2026.
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What is Article 223 of the Constitution
Article 223 of the Constitution of India empowers the President to appoint an Acting Chief Justice of a High Court when:
- The office of the Chief Justice is vacant.
- The Chief Justice is unable to perform duties.
- A permanent Chief Justice has not yet assumed office.
This provision ensures that judicial and administrative work of a High Court continues without interruption.
Who is Justice Tapabrata Chakraborty
Justice Tapabrata Chakraborty is a distinguished jurist currently serving as the Acting Chief Justice of the Calcutta High Court, a position he assumed on June 21, 2026.
Early Life and Legal Career
Born on November 27, 1966, into a family of lawyers in Kolkata, West Bengal, Justice Chakraborty’s legal career was significantly influenced by his family’s background. He obtained his LL.B. degree and enrolled as an advocate with the Bar Council on January 29, 1991.
Over the course of his 22-year legal practice, he was primarily active in the Calcutta High Court. His practice was characterized by a broad spectrum of civil and constitutional litigation, with a specialized focus on service and education laws.
Judicial Tenure
Justice Chakraborty’s transition to the bench began with his elevation as an Additional Judge of the Calcutta High Court on October 30, 2013. He was subsequently appointed as a Permanent Judge of the court on March 14, 2016.
Throughout his time on the bench, he has been involved in significant administrative and judicial roles:
- Acting Chief Justice: Appointed to this post following the retirement of Chief Justice Sujoy Paul in June 2026.
- State Legal Services Authority: He has served as the Executive Chairman of the West Bengal State Legal Services Authority.
- Technological Reforms: He served as a member of the Calcutta High Court’s Computer Committee, playing a role in the court’s efforts to modernize and implement technology-driven judicial reforms.
