The Supreme Court collegium has given its final approval for the appointment of Justice Mahesh Sharadchandra Sonak from the Bombay High Court as the new Chief Justice of the Jharkhand High Court. This move paves the way for a leadership transition in the Ranchi-based court.
A Seamless Transition of Leadership
The appointment process was initiated as the current Chief Justice of the Jharkhand High Court, Justice Tarlok Singh Chauhan, is set to superannuate on January 8, 2025. In a communique issued on Thursday, the Supreme Court confirmed that its collegium had convened and formally cleared Justice Sonak's name for elevation to the top post in Jharkhand.
The Legal Journey of Justice Mahesh Sonak
Justice Mahesh Sharadchandra Sonak was born on November 28, 1964. His academic foundation was laid in Goa, where he completed his schooling at Don Bosco High School in Panaji. He pursued a science graduation from Dhempe College of Arts & Science before earning his LL.B. in First Class from M. S. College of Law, Panaji, which was affiliated with Bombay University at the time.
His linguistic prowess was recognized early when he received the Portuguese Language Diploma Award from the Xavier Centre of Historical Research. Enrolling as an advocate on the rolls of the Bar Council of Maharashtra & Goa in October 1988, he began his legal practice at the Panaji Bench of the Bombay High Court.
His practice was diverse and extensive, covering several key areas:
- Civil and constitutional law
- Labour and service law
- Environmental law
- Commercial and tax laws
- Company law
- Public interest litigations
He also held significant government counsel positions, serving as the additional standing counsel for the central government and as a special counsel for the state government and various statutory corporations. His judicial career took a major leap when he was elevated as an Additional Judge of the Bombay High Court on June 21, 2013.
What This Appointment Means for Jharkhand
The appointment of Justice Sonak ensures continuity and stability in the administration of justice in Jharkhand. With his rich background in diverse legal fields, including environmental law and public interest litigation, his leadership is expected to guide the High Court through complex legal challenges. The collegium's timely decision prevents any administrative vacuum following Justice Chauhan's retirement, marking a smooth transfer of responsibilities within the Indian judiciary.
