Patna: Justice Pavankumar Bhimappa Bajanthri was sworn in as the 46th Chief Justice of the Patna High Court at a formal ceremony held at the Raj Bhavan on Sunday. Bihar Governor Arif Mohammad Khan administered the oath of office.
Justice Bajanthri, who had been serving as the Acting Chief Justice since August, brings with him over 25 years of legal experience across various High Courts in the country. His elevation comes after the former Chief Justice, Justice Vipul M. Pancholi, was promoted to the Supreme Court.
Early Life and Education
Born on October 23, 1963, in Belagavi (formerly Belgaum), Karnataka, Justice Bajanthri hails from the Kannada Brahmin community. His foundational education was at the Karnataka Vidyavardhak Sangha School, run by the KLE Society.
He pursued legal studies in Bengaluru, graduating with an LLB from S.J.R. College of Law. His passion for the legal profession began early in life and continued to guide his career path.
Legal Career and Public Service
Justice Bajanthri enrolled as an advocate in 1990, starting his practice in the Karnataka High Court. Over the years, he built a solid reputation in civil and constitutional matters.
In 1993–94, he was appointed as Standing Counsel for the Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC)—a key role in handling legal matters related to recruitment and public administration.
Later, in May 2006, he was designated as a Notary by the Government of India, reflecting his continued contributions to public legal services.
Judicial Career and Transfers
- January 2, 2015: Appointed as Additional Judge of the Karnataka High Court.
- March 16, 2015: Transferred and sworn in as Permanent Judge of the Punjab and Haryana High Court.
- November 17, 2018: Returned to the Karnataka High Court.
- October 20, 2021: Elevated to Judge of the Patna High Court.
His varied judicial experience across multiple high courts has shaped a well-rounded legal philosophy.
Tenure as Acting Chief Justice and Recent Appointment
Justice Bajanthri was appointed Acting Chief Justice of the Patna High Court on August 27, 2025, following Justice Pancholi’s elevation to the apex court. Over the past month, he oversaw key judicial and administrative functions of the High Court.
Now, with his formal appointment as Chief Justice, he is expected to lead the court with a focus on efficiency, accessibility, and transparency in judicial delivery.
Key Highlights of Justice Bajanthri’s Profile
- Born: October 23, 1963, Belagavi, Karnataka
- Education: KLE Society’s Vidyavardhak Sangha School; LLB from S.J.R. College of Law, Bengaluru
- Enrolled as Advocate: 1990
- Standing Counsel for KPSC: 1993-94
- Appointed Notary: 2006
Judicial Appointments:
- Additional Judge, Karnataka High Court – Jan 2015
- Permanent Judge, Punjab & Haryana High Court – Mar 2015
- Judge, Karnataka High Court – Nov 2018
- Judge, Patna High Court – Oct 2021
- Chief Justice, Patna High Court – Sept 21, 2025
Legacy and Vision Ahead
Known for his judicial integrity and administrative efficiency, Justice Bajanthri’s appointment is expected to bring stability and momentum to the Patna High Court. With his broad national exposure and deep understanding of both southern and northern legal systems, he is likely to foster inclusive judicial reforms, expedite case disposal, and strengthen judicial infrastructure in Bihar.
Read also: SC Cancels Anticipatory Bail of Ex-IAS Officers Anil Tuteja, Alok Shukla in Chhattisgarh NAN Scam
