Eleven additional judges were officially appointed as permanent judges of the Bombay High Court in a significant ceremony held at the Central Court Hall of the HC building. The swearing-in ceremony, though primarily conducted in person in Mumbai, was also conducted virtually for judges presiding over High Court benches in Goa, Nagpur, and Aurangabad.
Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya administered the oath to the additional judges who were physically present in Mumbai. Meanwhile, the senior-most judges at the respective benches oversaw the oath-taking ceremony for the additional judges present there.
Among those sworn in at the Principal Seat in Bombay were Justices Kishore Chandrakant Sant, Kamal Khata, Sharmila Deshmukh, Sandeep Marne, Gauri Godse, Rajesh Shantaram Patil, and Arif Doctor. Justice Valmiki SA Menezes was sworn in at the Goa Bench, Justice Arun Pedneker at the Aurangabad Bench, and Justices Urmila Sachin Joshi-Phalke and Bharat Pandurang Deshpande at the Nagpur Bench.
The appointment of these additional judges as permanent judges is a significant development for the Bombay High Court. It not only strengthens the bench but also reflects the judiciary’s commitment to ensuring efficient and effective dispensation of justice across the region. The newly appointed permanent judges bring with them a wealth of experience and expertise, which will undoubtedly benefit the High Court in handling a diverse range of cases.
The ceremony, although conducted in adherence to COVID-19 protocols, was a momentous occasion for the Bombay High Court and the legal fraternity as a whole. It symbolizes the judiciary’s dedication to upholding the rule of law and providing justice to all citizens. The appointment of these additional judges as permanent members of the High Court is a testament to their commitment and dedication to the legal profession.
As permanent judges, these individuals will continue to serve the judiciary and uphold the principles of justice, fairness, and equality. Their appointment not only recognizes their contributions to the legal field but also highlights the judiciary’s efforts to ensure the highest standards of judicial excellence.
