Supreme Court Appoints Justice N Kotiswar Singh, First Judge from Manipur

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The Supreme Court of India is set to appoint two new judges: Justice Nongmeikapam Kotiswar Singh and Justice R Mahadevan.

An Overview of the News

• The SC Collegium recommended their elevation on July 1, highlighting the importance of diversity on the bench.

• The Centre approved their elevation on July 16.

Justice N Kotiswar Singh:

• Currently the Chief Justice of the High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh.

• Originally from Manipur, he will be the first Supreme Court judge from Manipur.

• He was set to retire on February 28, 2025, but will now serve in the Supreme Court until February 28, 2028 (retirement age is 65 for SC judges).

• Oversaw key cases in Manipur, including intervention in the functioning of Manipur University during 2018 protests.

Justice R Mahadevan:

• Justice R. Mahadevan, currently serving as a Judge at the Madras High Court, will assume office as a Judge of the Supreme Court of India upon assuming charge.

• Judge at the Madras High Court since 2013 and currently its Acting Chief Justice.

• Belongs to a backward community from Tamil Nadu.

• This will be his first position outside the Madras High Court.

• Part of a bench that set aside conditions on the RSS’ proposed statewide march in February 2023.

Once both Justices assume office, the Supreme Court will be at full strength with 34 judges.