New Delhi: Justice Sudhanshu Dhulia, a sitting judge of the Supreme Court of India, is set to retire on August 9, 2025, after completing a tenure of just over three years on the apex court bench. His retirement will mark the culmination of a distinguished legal career that began in the mid-1980s and included key judicial and legal positions across several jurisdictions.
Three-Year Tenure in Supreme Court
Justice Dhulia was elevated to the Supreme Court on May 9, 2022, from the Gauhati High Court, where he served as Chief Justice. During his time on the apex court bench, he was involved in several significant matters and was known for his balanced judicial approach and sensitivity to constitutional values. Though his tenure was relatively short, his contributions reflected a commitment to upholding justice and the rule of law.
Judicial Journey Across States
Justice Dhulia’s journey in the judiciary began with his appointment as a permanent judge of the Uttarakhand High Court in November 2008, a role he held until January 2021. He was then appointed the Chief Justice of the Gauhati High Court on January 10, 2021, before his elevation to the Supreme Court in 2022.
Over the years, he earned a reputation for his deep understanding of constitutional matters, civil liberties, and administrative law.
Early Legal and Academic Background
Born in 1960, Justice Dhulia began his legal practice at the Allahabad High Court in 1986, focusing on civil, constitutional, and service matters. He was appointed the First Chief Standing Counsel of Uttarakhand in 2000, shortly after the formation of the state. He later served as the State’s Additional Advocate General in 2003 and was designated a Senior Advocate by the Uttarakhand High Court in 2004.
A product of Sainik School, Lucknow, Justice Dhulia completed his Master’s in Modern History and LL.B from Allahabad University, a combination that gave him a unique perspective on socio-legal issues.
A Legacy of Dignity and Discipline
Known for his courteous demeanor and clear articulation in court, Justice Dhulia has been widely respected by the Bar and the Bench. As he prepares to demit office, colleagues and legal observers alike have noted his contribution to the Indian judiciary as a “thoughtful jurist” who brought a “regional and humanistic lens” to constitutional interpretation.
