Patna: Justice Vipul M Pancholi was sworn in as the 45th Chief Justice of the Patna High Court on Monday in a ceremony held at the Raj Bhavan, Patna. The Governor of Bihar, Arif Mohammad Khan, administered the oath of office and secrecy on the Raj Bhavan lawn, marking a significant occasion for the state judiciary.
Gujarat High Court Judges Attend Swearing-In
In a show of solidarity and respect, 10 judges from the Gujarat High Court specially flew in to attend the swearing-in ceremony of their former colleague. The event was followed by a formal welcome ceremony at 12:15 PM at Shatabdi Bhavan, within the High Court premises. The gathering was attended by High Court judges, lawyers, and court officials.
Chief Justice Begins Judicial Duties on Day One
Shortly after the formal welcome, Chief Justice Pancholi assumed his new responsibilities by sitting on the bench with Justice Parth Sarthi. Together, they began hearing listed cases, underlining his immediate engagement with judicial proceedings in the Patna High Court.
Judicial Journey: From Ahmedabad to Patna
Born on May 28, 1968, in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, Justice Pancholi holds a degree in Electronics from St. Xavier’s College, Ahmedabad, and later studied law at Sir L.A. Shah Law College. He practiced as an advocate in the Gujarat High Court for seven years, until March 2006.
He was elevated as a judge of the Gujarat High Court in 2014, serving with distinction before being transferred to the Patna High Court on July 24, 2023.
Elevation Recommended by Supreme Court Collegium
Justice Pancholi’s elevation to Chief Justice was based on a recommendation made by the Supreme Court Collegium on May 26, 2025, and later approved by the Union Government. His appointment is seen as a continuation of judicial leadership marked by experience and commitment to justice.
