The Supreme Court Collegium has recommended the appointment of three advocates as judges of the Delhi High Court. The names proposed for elevation are Shri Ajay Digpaul, Shri Harish Vaidyanathan Shankar, and Ms. Shwetasree Majumder.
This recommendation follows a thorough evaluation process, which included consultations with a judge familiar with the affairs of the Delhi High Court and a review of materials provided by the Department of Justice.
Advocate Profiles and Recommendations:
1. Shri Ajay Digpaul: With 31 years of legal practice, Shri Ajay Digpaul specializes in civil and criminal law. His professional competence and integrity were endorsed positively by the Department of Justice and a consultee judge. The Collegium highlighted his extensive experience, noting his appearances in 42 reported judgments by the High Court. The Collegium found him fit and suitable for the judicial position.
2. Shri Harish Vaidyanathan Shankar: Shri Harish Vaidyanathan Shankar has an impressive record with over 180 reported judgments. His professional competence and integrity were also affirmed by the Department of Justice and a consultee judge. The Collegium recommended his appointment, considering him well-suited for the role.
3. Ms. Shwetasree Majumder: Ms. Shwetasree Majumder, an expert in Intellectual Property Rights (IPR), has over 21 years of practice. Her work in civil matters, particularly IPR, technology, advertising, and trade secrets, was emphasized as a valuable addition to the Delhi High Court, which handles a significant number of IPR cases. The Collegium also noted that her elevation would enhance diversity and inclusivity on the Bench. Her substantial practice is reflected in 35 reported judgments. Despite observations regarding her age, the Collegium confirmed she meets the threshold age criterion of 45 years.
The Supreme Court Collegium, led by Chief Justice of India Dhananjaya Y Chandrachud and Justices Sanjiv Khanna and B.R. Gavai, resolved to recommend these advocates’ appointments, with their inter se seniority to be fixed according to existing practice.
