New Delhi: The Supreme Court Collegium, headed by Chief Justice of India B R Gavai, has recommended the elevation of three senior High Court judges as Chief Justices of different High Courts. The decision was made during a collegium meeting held on September 11, 2025, and marks another significant step in ensuring judicial leadership across the Indian judiciary.
Details of the Recommendations
As per the official resolution, the following recommendations have been made:
Justice P.B. Bajanthri, currently serving as the Acting Chief Justice of the Patna High Court, has been proposed for permanent elevation as its Chief Justice.
Justice Soumen Sen of the Calcutta High Court has been recommended for appointment as the Chief Justice of the Meghalaya High Court.
Justice M. Sunder of the Madras High Court has been proposed for elevation as the Chief Justice of the Manipur High Court. This recommendation follows the retirement of the incumbent Chief Justice on September 14, 2025.
Forwarded for Centre’s Approval
The collegium’s recommendations have now been sent to the Union Government for approval. Upon clearance, the appointments will bring about important leadership transitions in the Patna, Meghalaya, and Manipur High Courts.
These appointments are a part of the ongoing effort to ensure that High Courts across the country are helmed by experienced judges with strong administrative and judicial capabilities.
Judicial Transfers and Appointments: A Collegium Function
Under the Indian constitutional framework, appointments and transfers of High Court judges—including elevations to Chief Justice positions—are made through a consultative process led by the Supreme Court Collegium, typically comprising the Chief Justice of India and the four senior-most judges of the Supreme Court.
The Collegium system plays a critical role in maintaining the independence of the judiciary while ensuring administrative efficiency across courts.
Awaiting Formal Notification
The final step in the process will be the issuance of notifications by the Ministry of Law and Justice, formalizing the appointments once the President of India gives assent based on the Union Government’s advice.
Read also: Supreme Court Collegium Recommends Elevation of Bombay & Patna Chief Justices to Apex Court
