Justice D. Krishnakumar was recently appointed as the Chief Justice of the Manipur High Court, marking a significant development in the region's judiciary. He was sworn in during a ceremony held at the Raj Bhavan, with Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya administering the oath of office. This transition occurs as Justice Siddharth Mridul, the outgoing Chief Justice, steps down upon reaching the mandatory retirement age of 62 on November 21, 2024.
Justice Krishnakumar's appointment was expedited following a recommendation by the Supreme Court Collegium just two days prior to his official swearing-in. His judicial career is well established, having served as the senior-most judge at the Madras High Court, where he was recognized for his expertise, especially in Constitutional law.
Born and raised within India, Justice Krishnakumar was officially elevated to the Madras High Court bench on April 7, 2016. His tenure there positioned him as one of the leading legal figures, treating complex cases with competence and diligence. His vast experience spans civil, constitutional, and service matters, making him well-equipped for the challenges of heading the Manipur High Court.
The Manipur High Court serves as the supreme judicial authority for the state and is located in Imphal. It handles all significant legal issues, from civil and criminal cases to matters concerning constitutional law. Justice Krishnakumar's deep knowledge of the Indian Constitution and his ability to interpret the law effectively more than qualify him for this pivotal role.
Speaking during the swearing-in ceremony, Chief Minister N. Biren Singh extended his heartfelt congratulations, expressing optimism for Justice Krishnakumar's leadership which he hopes will advance justice and uphold the rights of the citizens. The importance of this new appointment is underscored by the backdrop of recent unrest and ethnic violence affecting Manipur, which has resulted in considerable social and political challenges. The state has witnessed over 240 fatalities and extensive displacement due to conflicts between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo-Hmar communities.
Justice Krishnakumar's leadership is expected to bring about not just stability but also constructive reforms within the judicial system of Manipur. His prior achievements set high expectations for addressing case backlogs, improving access, and enhancing the transparency of judicial proceedings. His vision includes ensuring the court remains accessible to all citizens, promoting justice not just as a legal concept but as a fundamental right for everyone.
Given his background and commitment to constitutional principles, it is anticipated he will implement necessary reforms to improve efficiency. His experience handling high-profile cases and his track record of ensuring the judiciary functions without bias will be integral to his success as Chief Justice.
Justice Siddharth Mridul, the predecessor, is credited with maintaining the integrity of the court during turbulent times and paving the way for future leadership. His retirement signifies not just the end of his term but also presents opportunities for new vision and perspectives as the court moves forward under Justice Krishnakumar's guidance.
With the oath of office now behind him, the people of Manipur look to Justice D. Krishnakumar to steer the High Court toward new horizons, ensuring justice is delivered effectively and reinforcing the rule of law within the state's complex socio-political framework. His inaugural address hinted at his commitment to fostering trust and collaboration between the judiciary and the citizens, making strides for someone who will not only lead with authority but empathy.
Justice Krishnakumar’s ascendance as the eighth Chief Justice of the Manipur High Court marks a new chapter. His comprehensive knowledge of legal nuances, especially constitutional matters, along with his commitment and expertise, is expected to engender hope and inspire confidence within the judicial system.
Through his tenure, he is poised to shape the future of the Manipur judicial system significantly, offering possibilities for transformation and progress at this important juncture. Undoubtedly, Justice D. Krishnakumar’s commitment and deep legal acumen render him well-equipped to handle the multifaceted challenges presented by his new role.
