In a significant development for the Indian judiciary, Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud administered the oath of office to Justices Prashant Kumar Mishra and K.V. Viswanathan on Friday. With their appointment, the court is now operating at its full sanctioned strength of 34 judges, ensuring the efficient functioning of the judicial system.
The swearing-in ceremony marked the official induction of Justices Mishra and Viswanathan into the esteemed ranks of the Indian judiciary. Their appointment comes as a result of the retirement of Justices Dinesh Maheshwari and M.R. Shah, who had served diligently and contributed significantly to the legal landscape of the country. Both retired justices stepped down from their positions earlier in May, creating vacancies that needed to be filled promptly to maintain the court’s complete strength.
Justice Prashant Kumar Mishra brings with him a wealth of experience and expertise in the legal domain. He has served as a judge of the Calcutta High Court and later as the Chief Justice of the Chhattisgarh High Court. His extensive background in the judiciary equips him well to take on the responsibilities of a Supreme Court judge. With his vast knowledge and understanding of the legal system, Justice Mishra is expected to make valuable contributions to the court’s proceedings.
Similarly, Justice K.V. Viswanathan’s appointment to the Supreme Court is a testament to his commendable legal career. He has previously served as the Chief Justice of the Telangana High Court and has an impressive track record of upholding justice and championing the rule of law. His elevation to the Supreme Court is a recognition of his exceptional competence and dedication to the legal profession. Justice Viswanathan’s insights and perspectives will undoubtedly enrich the court’s deliberations on various legal matters.
The appointment of these two new justices ensures that the Supreme Court operates at its full strength, enabling the timely disposal of cases and the delivery of justice to the citizens of India. The court plays a vital role in upholding the Constitution, interpreting laws, and safeguarding the fundamental rights of individuals. With a complete bench, the court is well-equipped to handle the increasing workload and address the diverse legal issues that come before it.
The process of appointing judges to the Supreme Court involves careful consideration and evaluation of the candidates’ qualifications, experience, and legal acumen. The Chief Justice of India, along with a collegium of senior judges, plays a crucial role in selecting and recommending candidates for appointment. The appointment of Justices Mishra and Viswanathan reflects this rigorous and thorough process, ensuring that only the most deserving candidates assume the responsibility of upholding justice in the highest court of the land.
As the Supreme Court now operates at full strength, it is expected to tackle a wide range of important cases that impact the nation and its citizens. From constitutional matters to civil and criminal disputes, the court’s decisions shape the legal landscape of the country and set precedents for future cases. The presence of a complete bench not only facilitates a more efficient workflow but also ensures a diversity of perspectives and approaches, fostering a balanced and comprehensive approach to the law.
In conclusion, the appointment of Justices Prashant Kumar Mishra and K.V. Viswanathan to the Supreme Court of India restores the court to its full sanctioned strength of 34 judges. Their induction brings a wealth of experience and legal expertise to the bench, further strengthening the judiciary’s ability to deliver justice effectively. With a complete bench, the Supreme Court is well-equipped to handle the complex legal matters that come before it and uphold the principles enshrined in the Indian Constitution.