Justice Sujoy Paul Takes Oath as Calcutta High Court Chief Justice
Justice Sujoy Paul officially became the Chief Justice of the Calcutta High Court on Friday. Governor C V Ananda Bose administered the oath of office during a formal ceremony held in court room number one.
The event drew a distinguished audience. Current and former judges attended the ceremony. State ministers and judicial officers also witnessed the proceedings.
Background and Judicial Journey
Justice Paul's appointment follows a recommendation from the Supreme Court Collegium. He previously served as the Acting Chief Justice of the High Court from October 8, 2025, to January 15, 2026. This interim role began after former Chief Justice T S Sivagnanam retired.
His transfer to the Calcutta High Court as a judge occurred on July 18, 2025. Justice Paul is scheduled to retire from the bench in June 2026.
The new Chief Justice has a rich legal background. He enrolled as an advocate in 1990 with the Bar Council of Madhya Pradesh. His practice covered civil, constitutional, industrial, and service law across various courts.
Justice Paul received his elevation to the Madhya Pradesh High Court as a judge in May 2011. He became a permanent judge there in April 2014. More recently, he took oath as a Judge of the Telangana High Court in March 2024.
Personal Acknowledgments and Pledge
In his speech after the oath, Justice Paul made a heartfelt pledge. He promised to dedicate every effort toward maintaining the institution's purity and efficiency. "I shall devote every effort for maintaining the purity and efficiency of this institution," he stated firmly.
He also expressed gratitude for the full cooperation received from members of the Bar. This support will be crucial for his new responsibilities.
Justice Paul took a moment to honor his mother, Manjushri Paul. She is an assistant teacher in a government school and a recipient of the President's award. "She was not only my first teacher in life, but my class teacher in school," he remarked with appreciation. His mother was present in the courtroom during the ceremony.
Born in June 1964 to Late Noni Gopal Paul and Manjushri Paul, his educational journey is notable. He studied at Pandit L S Jha Model Higher Secondary School. He later earned his graduation, post-graduation, and law degree from Rani Durgavati University in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh.
Political Congratulations
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee extended her congratulations publicly. She posted a message on the social media platform X. "Sincere congratulations to Justice Shri Sujoy Paul on his being sworn in as the Hon’ble Chief Justice of the Calcutta High Court," she wrote.
The swearing-in marks a significant moment for the Calcutta High Court. It brings a seasoned jurist to its highest position. Justice Paul's extensive experience and personal commitment set the stage for his tenure.
