NEW The Hindu
Tue 08 Sep 2026 04:30:09 PM
What is the role of State government in appointment of High Court Chief Justice? | Explained
SUMMARY
**Role of State Government in High Court Chief Justice Appointment**
Under Article 217 of the Constitution, the President appoints the High Court Chief Justice after consulting the Chief Justice of India and the Governor of the concerned state. The State government's role is consultative, not decisive. The Governor forwards the state's views, but the Supreme Court's collegium (led by CJI and senior judges) recommends candidates. The 1993 and 1998 Supreme Court rulings established collegium supremacy, making CJI's opinion paramount. States can raise objections or share intelligence inputs, but cannot veto appointments. This ensures judicial independence from political influence while maintaining democratic consultation.
Under Article 217 of the Constitution, the President appoints the High Court Chief Justice after consulting the Chief Justice of India and the Governor of the concerned state. The State government's role is consultative, not decisive. The Governor forwards the state's views, but the Supreme Court's collegium (led by CJI and senior judges) recommends candidates. The 1993 and 1998 Supreme Court rulings established collegium supremacy, making CJI's opinion paramount. States can raise objections or share intelligence inputs, but cannot veto appointments. This ensures judicial independence from political influence while maintaining democratic consultation.
Relevant For:
Prelims + Mains
GS - II
Polity & Governance
Focus Area
Judicial Appointment
Collegium
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