In a significant development for the judiciary of Jharkhand, former Bombay High Court judge Justice Mahesh Sharadchandra Sonak was sworn in as the new Chief Justice of the Jharkhand High Court on Friday. The oath was administered by Jharkhand Governor Santosh Gangwar at a formal ceremony held in the state capital.
A Ceremony of Legal Luminaries in Ranchi
The swearing-in event was organized at the prestigious Birsa Munda Mandap located within the Lok Bhawan complex in Ranchi. The function witnessed a distinguished gathering, reflecting the importance of the occasion. Chief Minister Hemant Soren was present alongside sitting judges of the High Court, numerous judicial officers, members of the legal fraternity, and senior government officials.
From Collegium Nod to Assuming Office
Justice Sonak's appointment follows the clearance of his candidature by the Supreme Court collegium on December 18. He steps into the role vacated by former Chief Justice Tarlok Singh Chauhan, who superannuated on January 8. With this appointment, Justice Sonak becomes the 17th Chief Justice to lead the Jharkhand High Court since its establishment in November 2000.
The Educational Journey of the New Chief Justice
Justice Mahesh Sharadchandra Sonak, born on November 28, 1964, hails from Goa. He completed his early schooling at Don Bosco High School in Panaji, Goa. For his higher education, he pursued a science degree from Dhempe College of Arts & Science. He then secured his law degree, graduating with a First Class LL.B. from the M.S. College of Law in Panaji, which was affiliated to Bombay University at the time.
His assumption of office marks a new chapter for the Jharkhand High Court, bringing with him extensive judicial experience from his tenure at the Bombay High Court. The legal community in Jharkhand anticipates his leadership in steering the court's proceedings and upholding judicial integrity.
