The recent transitions within India's judicial leadership have sparked significant interest, particularly with the elevation of Delhi High Court Chief Justice Manmohan to the Supreme Court and the subsequent appointment of Justice Vibhu Bakhru as acting Chief Justice of the Delhi High Court.
This chain of events unfolded on Tuesday when the Central Government officially notified Justice Manmohan's elevation, effectively ending his tenure as Chief Justice of the Delhi High Court. The notification was issued by the appointments division of the Department of Justice under the Ministry of Law and Justice, which stated, "...Justice Vibhu Bakhru, Judge of the Delhi High Court, to perform the duties of the office of the Chief Justice of the High Court from the date Shri Justice Manmohan relinquishes charge of his office, owing to his elevation as Judge of the Supreme Court."
Justice Bakhru, who was born in Nagpur in 1966, completed his early education at the Delhi Public School on Mathura Road. He graduated with honors from Delhi University, earning his Bachelor of Commerce degree in 1987 and later pursued his Chartered Accountancy, qualifying as one by 1989. After receiving his Legal Bachelor’s degree (LL.B) in 1990, he enrolled with the Bar Council of Delhi the same year. Prior to his judicial appointments, he established himself as a competent legal practitioner across various courts and tribunals, including his work within the Supreme Court and the Delhi High Court.
Bakhru’s judicial career began with his appointment as an additional judge at the Delhi High Court on April 17, 2013. His commitment and performance led to his designation as a permanent judge on March 18, 2015. Justice Bakhru's elevation to Acting Chief Justice highlights his respected status within the legal community, as he now oversees the Delhi High Court until the appointment of another permanent Chief Justice.
The appointment signals Justice Manmohan's rising status within India's legal hierarchy. He was first appointed as the Chief Justice of the Delhi High Court on September 29, 2024, and has held the position with dignity and respect, known for his judicious rulings and firm grasp of the law. He joined the Delhi High Court as a judge on March 13, 2008, and during his tenure, he accumulated notable accolades, emphasizing his proficiency and commitment to justice. Notably, Manmohan ranks second on the all-India seniority list of High Court judges and was the most senior judge of the Delhi High Court, making his elevation to the Supreme Court especially significant.
Justice Manmohan's educational credentials include earning his BA (Honors) from Hindu College, Delhi University, prior to pursuing his law degree at the DU Campus Law Centre. He began his practise as an advocate with the Delhi Bar Council after his enrolment in 1986. His familial background also adds to his profile; he is the son of the late Jagmohan, who was well-known as both a political leader and the former Lieutenant Governor of Delhi.
On the procedural side, the Supreme Court Collegium, which is primarily responsible for the appointments of judges to the higher judiciary, recommended Justice Manmohan's name for elevation on November 28, receiving support from key legal figures including Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna. The collegium highlighted Manmohan's seniority and capability, stating, "Currently, the Supreme Court Bench is represented by only one judge from the Delhi High Court, making Justice Manmohan’s elevation significant." This emphasis on seniority reflects the necessity of having diverse representation from various High Courts within the Supreme Court.
Justice Bakhru, meanwhile, steps up to oversee the Delhi High Court's operations and continuity during this transitional period. The transition to acting Chief Justice is supported by Article 223 of the Indian Constitution, which allows the President to appoint any puisne judge as acting Chief Justice when the office is vacant. Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal confirmed Bakhru's transition on X, stating, "The President is pleased to appoint Justice Vibhu Bakhru to perform the duties of office as acting Chief Justice of the Delhi High Court." This pivotal role allows Bakhru to maintain stability within the High Court, ensuring justice delivery to the populace.
Justice Bakhru’s judicial approach is anticipated to carry forward the legacy of his predecessor, focusing on upholding the rule of law and ensuring fair administration of justice within the High Court. The legal fraternity is optimistic and supportive as the court continues to function with experienced hands during this notable period of change.
With Justice Manmohan's historical role now shifted to the Supreme Court and Justice Bakhru stepping in, the developments highlight the dynamic nature of India's judicial appointments, reflecting growth within its legal infrastructures. The judicial community looks forward to the contributions each will make toward their respective courts, nurturing the fabric of Indian justice.
