The Supreme Court of India has welcomed Justices Nongmeikapam Kotiswar Singh and R Mahadevan, elevating them as judges on Tuesday.
Their appointments bring the apex court's strength back to its sanctioned 34, including the Chief Justice.
Justice Kotiswar Singh, Chief Justice of the Jammu and Kashmir High Court, becomes the first judge from Manipur to ascend to the Supreme Court.
The SC Collegium highlighted the significance of his appointment for the North-East region, emphasizing that he will be the first from Manipur to serve on the top court.
Justice Singh, originally from Manipur, began his judicial career in October 2011 when he was appointed as a judge of the Gauhati High Court.
Following the establishment of the Manipur High Court, he was transferred there.
In February 2023, he was appointed Chief Justice of the Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh High Court. He is set to retire in February 2028 upon reaching the age of 65.
Justice Mahadevan, currently the Acting Chief Justice of the Madras High Court, has also been elevated to the Supreme Court.
The Collegium noted that Justice Mahadevan belongs to a backward community from Tamil Nadu, and his appointment will enhance the diversity of the Supreme Court Bench.
The Collegium also acknowledged his seniority, ranking third among the currently serving judges of the Madras High Court, including those posted as chief justices in other courts.
Born on June 10, 1963, Justice Mahadevan will retire in June 2028.
His elevation reflects the Collegium's commitment to representation and diversity, prioritising his candidature to give voice to the backward community.
Another vacancy will arise in the Supreme Court in September with the retirement of Justice Hima Kohli.
Following these elevations, the law ministry announced consequential appointments: Justice Tashi Rabstan will serve as the Acting Chief Justice of the Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh High Court, succeeding Justice Singh.
Similarly, Justice D Krishnakumar will become the Acting Chief Justice of the Madras High Court, filling the position vacated by Justice Mahadevan.
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