New Delhi, October 15, 2024 – The Supreme Court Collegium has recommended the elevation of three advocates to the High Court of Andhra Pradesh. The names of Shri Maheswara Rao Kuncheam @ Kuncham, Shri Thoota Chandra Dhana Sekar @ T C D Sekhar, and Shri Challa Gunaranjan have been put forward for appointment as Judges of the High Court.
On May 15, 2024, the Chief Justice of the Andhra Pradesh High Court, in consultation with his two senior-most colleagues, recommended the trio for judicial positions. Despite the absence of formal views from the Chief Minister and the Governor of Andhra Pradesh, the Department of Justice processed the recommendation, invoking the Memorandum of Procedure’s clause that assumes state authorities have no objections if feedback is delayed.
After thorough consultation with several Supreme Court judges familiar with the Andhra Pradesh High Court and an assessment of each candidate’s professional record, the Collegium deemed all three advocates suitable for elevation.
Shri Maheswara Rao Kuncheam @ Kuncham has built a strong practice with significant representation in 136 reported cases. The Collegium found his professional competence and integrity impeccable.
Shri Thoota Chandra Dhana Sekar @ T C D Sekhar, currently a Government Pleader for Commercial Taxes, was acknowledged for his 25 years of experience in civil, criminal, constitutional, and taxation law. While one consultee-judge noted his average performance, the majority favored his elevation, citing his good reputation and contribution to legal practice.
Shri Challa Gunaranjan was also recommended based on his extensive practice and involvement in 129 reported cases. His high professional income and a strong track record of competence and integrity were key factors in his selection.
The Supreme Court Collegium, led by Chief Justice Dhananjaya Y Chandrachud, has recommended that their inter se seniority be fixed according to established practice, as they now await formal appointment to the Andhra Pradesh High Court bench.
