In a significant judicial appointment, the Supreme Court collegium, led by Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud, has recommended Justice Narendar G for the position of Chief Justice of the Uttarakhand High Court. This recommendation was made in anticipation of the upcoming vacancy following the retirement of the current Chief Justice, Justice Ritu Bahri, scheduled for October 10, 2024.
Justice Narendar G, currently serving at the Andhra Pradesh High Court, began his judicial career at the High Court of Karnataka on January 2, 2015, before his transfer to Andhra Pradesh on October 30, 2023. Recognized as the senior-most judge from his parent High Court of Karnataka, Justice Narendar also belongs to the Other Backward Class (OBC), adding a diverse perspective to his judicial responsibilities.
The collegium, which includes Justices Sanjiv Khanna and B R Gavai alongside Chief Justice Chandrachud, highlighted Justice Narendar’s extensive experience both on the judicial and administrative fronts of the High Courts of Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. His credentials and tenure have prepared him well for the chief role at the Uttarakhand High Court.
Furthermore, the collegium’s resolution emphasizes the lack of representation from Karnataka in the chief justiceships across the country, underscoring the strategic importance of this appointment. The resolution, available on the Supreme Court’s official website, confirms the collegium’s confidence in Justice Narendar G’s capabilities and suitability for the role of Chief Justice, set to commence post Justice Bahri’s retirement next year.