Short Tenures of Chief Justices
In September 2024, Chief Justices were appointed to eight High Courts across India, but most have very short tenures.
Some Chief Justices, like Justice Rajiv Shakdher (Himachal Pradesh), had tenures as short as 24 days.
Other Chief Justices, such as those in Delhi, Jammu & Kashmir, and Madhya Pradesh, have tenures ranging from six months to one year.
Only Justice M.S. Ramachandra Rao in Jharkhand has a relatively long tenure of about four years.
Challenges with Short Tenures
Chief Justices play a crucial role in managing the High Court's administration, finances, judicial appointments, staff welfare, and legal education.
Short tenures prevent Chief Justices from fully understanding the needs of the institution and effectively implementing reforms.
By the time they become familiar with the workings of the High Court, many Chief Justices retire, limiting their impact.
Historical Context and Concerns
During British rule, Chief Justices often had long tenures, averaging nearly eight years.
Since independence, the frequency of Chief Justice changes has increased, leading to shorter tenures, reducing continuity and effectiveness in managing High Courts.
Need for Reform
The increasing complexity of the Chief Justice's role requires more time for effective governance and reform.
The problem of short tenures needs urgent attention and a collective solution from stakeholders, including the Bar, to ensure the judiciary functions smoothly.
A joint effort to address the issue is essential to prevent the judiciary’s effectiveness from being compromised due to constant leadership changes.
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