New Chief Justice Takes Oath, Vows to Uphold Judicial Legacy
Justice S.A. Dharmadhikari has been formally sworn in as the 55th Chief Justice of the Madras High Court. The ceremony, which saw Governor R.N. Ravi administering the oath, marks a significant transition following the retirement of Chief Justice Manindra Mohan Shrivastava. Justice Dharmadhikari, previously a judge at the Kerala High Court, brings with him a history of judicial service originating from the Madhya Pradesh High Court.
The appointment, formalized by a Union government notification on March 5th, follows recommendations from the Supreme Court Collegium. Justice Dharmadhikari's prior roles included serving as a standing counsel for various central government entities, including the Income Tax Department and the Reserve Bank of India, as well as for public sector undertakings and in matters concerning the Bhopal gas tragedy. He was initially appointed an additional judge of the Madhya Pradesh High Court on April 7, 2016, becoming a permanent judge on March 17, 2018, before his transfer to the Kerala High Court in April 2025.
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During his acceptance speech, Chief Justice Dharmadhikari acknowledged the esteemed collegium of the Supreme Court, including Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justices Vikram Nath and J.K. Maheshwari. He emphasized his commitment to preserving the Madras High Court's "rich legacy of jurisprudence and integrity." The occasion was attended by a notable assembly of legal and government officials, including representatives from various bar associations, the Additional Solicitor General, the State Public Prosecutor, and senior police officials.
The transition underscores the continuing institutional processes that shape the leadership within India's higher judiciary. The swearing-in event, described as a "simple ceremony," was held at the Lok Bhavan, signaling a continuation of established practices for such significant judicial appointments.