In a significant development for the judiciary in Bihar, Justice Sangam Kumar Sahoo was officially sworn in as the Chief Justice of the Patna High Court on Wednesday. The oath of office was administered by Governor Arif Mohammed Khan at a formal function held at Lok Bhavan in Patna.
A Ceremony of High Dignitaries
The swearing-in ceremony witnessed the presence of a host of eminent personalities. Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Bihar Assembly Speaker Prem Kumar, and Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha were among the key political figures in attendance. The event was also graced by Parliamentary Affairs Minister Vijay Choudhary, Rural Works Minister Ashok Kumar Choudhary, along with several judges from the Patna High Court and other dignitaries.
The appointment process for Justice Sahoo was set in motion earlier. The Supreme Court Collegium, in its meeting on December 18, 2025, recommended his name for the top judicial post in Patna. Following this recommendation and subsequent approval from the President of India, the Union Law Ministry formally notified his appointment on January 1.
The Illustrious Legal Journey of Justice Sahoo
Justice Sangam Kumar Sahoo, born in 1964, brings a wealth of experience and a distinguished legal pedigree to his new role. His academic journey began with matriculation from Nuabazar High School in Cuttack. He then pursued a Bachelor of Science degree from Stewart Science College, followed by Master's degrees in both English and Odia from Utkal University.
The foundation of his legal expertise is deeply rooted in his family. He was mentored by his father, Sarat Chandra Sahoo, a renowned expert in criminal law, which provided him with a profound understanding of legal principles from a young age. After enrolling as an advocate with the Odisha State Bar Council on November 26, 1989, he further honed his skills by working closely with constitutional expert Manoranjan Panda.
Building a strong reputation at the bar, particularly for his expertise in criminal law, his merit and legal acumen were recognized with his appointment as a judge of the Odisha High Court on July 2, 2014.
A New Chapter for Patna High Court
With this appointment, Justice Sangam Kumar Sahoo becomes the 47th Chief Justice to lead the Patna High Court. His extensive background in criminal law and his rich judicial experience from the Odisha High Court are expected to guide the functioning of the Bihar judiciary. The ceremony marks the beginning of a new administrative chapter for one of the country's prominent high courts, with expectations high for his tenure.
