Justice Sushrut Arvind Dharmadhikari Appointed Chief Justice of Madras High Court
In a significant judicial development, Justice Sushrut Arvind Dharmadhikari, currently serving as a judge at the Kerala High Court, has been appointed as the Chief Justice of the Madras High Court. This appointment marks a key transition in the leadership of one of India's prominent high courts.
Succession and Superannuation
Justice Dharmadhikari will succeed Chief Justice Manindra Mohan Shrivastava, who is set to attain superannuation on March 5, 2025. The change in leadership is part of a planned succession to ensure continuity and stability in the court's administration.
Supreme Court Collegium Recommendation
The appointment was recommended by the Supreme Court collegium in a statement released on Friday. The collegium held a meeting on February 26, where the decision was made. The statement emphasized a new policy aimed at strengthening judicial efficiency and quality. According to this policy, a judge proposed to take over as Chief Justice of a high court should be transferred well in advance, preferably two months before the vacancy arises.
This advance transfer allows the incoming Chief Justice to become well conversant with the affairs of the high court and assume charge smoothly upon the retirement of the incumbent, the statement explained. This strategic move is designed to enhance the administration of justice and ensure a seamless transition.
Background and Career of Justice Dharmadhikari
Justice Sushrut Arvind Dharmadhikari was born on July 8, 1966, in Raipur, which is now a district in Chhattisgarh. He pursued his education at Nagpur University, where he obtained a bachelor's degree in commerce and law, laying a strong foundation for his legal career.
He enrolled as an advocate at Jabalpur in 1992 and quickly built a distinguished career. From 2000 to 2015, he served as a standing counsel for the Union government, representing key departments such as the Income Tax Department and the Reserve Bank of India. His roles expanded to include serving as a senior standing counsel for central excise, the district central co-operative bank, and various public sector undertakings (PSUs). Additionally, he contributed to social welfare by serving as a welfare commissioner for Bhopal gas victims, showcasing his commitment to public service.
Judicial Appointments and Transfers
Justice Dharmadhikari's judicial career began with his appointment as an additional judge of the Madhya Pradesh High Court on April 7, 2016. He was made a permanent judge on March 17, 2018, reflecting his competence and dedication. In a later transfer, he was moved to the Kerala High Court on April 23, 2025, where he currently holds the fifth position in seniority among the judges.
This latest appointment to the Madras High Court as Chief Justice is a testament to his extensive experience and the trust placed in him by the judiciary. It aligns with the collegium's goal of optimizing judicial administration through timely and strategic placements.
