The News Freedom
New Delhi, December 28
In a key move, the Supreme Court Collegium has recommended the name of Justice Sheel Nagu, currently serving at the Madhya Pradesh High Court, to be appointed as the Chief Justice of the Punjab and Haryana High Court.
The Supreme Court Collegium comprising of Chief Justice of India, Dhananjaya Y Chandrachud , Justice Sanjiv Khanna and Justice B R Gavai said in its order that the imminent vacancy in the esteemed office of Chief Justice of the High Court of Punjab and Haryana, owing to the retirement of Mr. Justice Ravi Shankar Jha, demands a suitable appointment.
“ According to Paragraph 3 of the Memorandum of Procedure governing such appointments, the process involves fair representation across High Courts, considering seniority within the respective High Courts, and assessing candidates based on merit and integrity. In line with this, the Collegium has recommended Mr. Justice Sheel Nagu for the role. Justice Nagu has been serving as a Judge at the High Court of Madhya Pradesh since his appointment on May 27, 2011. His legal career prior to this elevation was marked by practice at the Madhya Pradesh High Court, specializing in Constitutional, service, labor, and criminal cases,” the Collegium said in its order.
Over his tenure of more than 12 years, Justice Nagu has authored over 499 reported judgments, showcasing an extensive contribution to the judicial system. As the most senior puisne Judge in his parent High Court, he embodies competence, integrity, and conduct befitting a high judicial office holder.
The Collegium acknowledges the representation of the High Court of Madhya Pradesh among the Chief Justices and, considering all relevant aspects, strongly advocates Justice Nagu’s appointment as Chief Justice for the High Court of Punjab and Haryana.
Read complete Supreme Court Collegium order