The Supreme Court, which has an authorized judge strength of 34, had been functioning with 32 judges after the retirements of Justices Dinesh Maheshwari and M R Shah. Their appointment has added to the Court’s working strength. The Chief Justice of India (CJI) D Y Chandrachud administered the oath of office to both appointees.
The Supreme Court Collegium, headed by the CJI, had recommended their names on May 17. The Government was prompt in approving these names and the President authorized their appointment.
Justice Prashant Kumar Mishra is the former Chief Justice of Andhra Pradesh High Court and Acting Chief Justice of Chhattisgarh High Court. His parent High Court is Chhattisgarh, where he has contributed significantly to the judiciary.
Justice Prashant Kumar Mishra has garnered extensive experience and expertise in the legal field throughout his career. He has presided over numerous complex and significant cases, demonstrating his commitment to upholding justice and the rule of law.
Justice Vishwanathan, who was made a Senior Advocate in the Supreme Court in 2009, has also served as an Additional Solicitor for the Central Government. He will become the Chief Justice of India upon the retirement of Justice JB Pardiwala on August 11, 2030, and remain in the post till May 25, 2031.
His elevation to the position of a Supreme Court judge is a testament to his expertise, exceptional legal acumen and contributions to the legal field.
The Supreme Court has a sanctioned strength of 34 judges and for a brief period, they will be at full capacity till the resignation of Justices K M Joseph and Ajay Rastogi who are all set to retire in June this year.