Justice Manoj Kumar Gupta appointed as Chief Justice of Uttarakhand High Court. Learn about his judicial career, appointment process, and exam-relevant insights for UPSC, PSC, and Law exams.
📰 Justice Manoj Kumar Gupta Appointed Chief Justice of Uttarakhand High Court — Current Affairs Article for Exam Preparation
Introduction to the Appointment
In a significant development in the Indian judiciary, Justice Manoj Kumar Gupta has been appointed as the Chief Justice of the Uttarakhand High Court. The official notification of his appointment was issued by the Government of India, following the recommendation of the Supreme Court Collegium. His appointment takes effect from the time he assumes office, succeeding Justice Guhanathan Narendar, who retired upon reaching the age of superannuation.
Judicial Career of Justice Manoj Kumar Gupta
Justice Manoj Kumar Gupta has had a long and distinguished legal and judicial career. Born on October 9, 1964, he completed his law degree from Lucknow University in 1987 and enrolled as an advocate the same year. He practiced primarily in civil, rent control, and constitutional law before joining the judiciary.
He was elevated as an Additional Judge of the Allahabad High Court on April 12, 2013, and became a permanent judge on April 10, 2015. Earlier, in 2023, he served as Acting Chief Justice of the Allahabad High Court.
The Appointment Process
Justice Gupta’s elevation as Chief Justice follows the Supreme Court Collegium’s recommendation in December 2025. The Collegium, headed by the Chief Justice of India, selected him to take over the leadership of the Uttarakhand High Court after the retirement of the then Chief Justice. The appointment was formally cleared by the Central Government, and the President of India appointed him under constitutional provisions.
Role and Responsibilities as Chief Justice
As the Chief Justice of the Uttarakhand High Court, Justice Gupta is now responsible for the overall administration of justice in the state. This includes overseeing judicial functions, managing judicial officers, and ensuring timely disposal of cases. The Chief Justice also plays a vital role in guiding legal reforms and upholding the constitutional rights of citizens.
Significance of the High Court in Uttarakhand
The Uttarakhand High Court, established in 2000 after the formation of the state, is the highest judicial authority in Uttarakhand. It is headquartered in Nainital and handles important civil and criminal cases under its jurisdiction. The Chief Justice heads this judicial institution and ensures the rule of law is upheld effectively across the state.
💡 Why This News Is Important
Key Appointment in the Judiciary
The appointment of Justice Manoj Kumar Gupta as Chief Justice is a noteworthy event in India’s judicial landscape because it ensures continuity and stability at the helm of the Uttarakhand High Court, a key constitutional body.
Impact on Competitive Exams
For aspirants of government exams such as Judicial Services, UPSC Civil Services, SSC and State PSCs, this news highlights the judicial appointment process in India, a key static portion within Indian Polity and Governance. Understanding how Chief Justices are appointed, including the roles of the Supreme Court Collegium and the President, is important for exams such as UPSC CSE, State PSCs, Judicial Entry Tests, and CLAT.
Administrative Importance
The Chief Justice holds significant authority in court administration, case management, and legal oversight. For students preparing for exams related to law, civil services, or governance, comprehension of this leadership change offers insights into judicial structure and responsibility at the state level.
📜 Historical Context
Establishment of Uttarakhand High Court
The Uttarakhand High Court was established on 9 November 2000, following the formation of the new state of Uttarakhand, which was carved out of Uttar Pradesh. Since then, it has served as the apex judicial forum in the state.
Role of the Collegium System
India follows the Collegium System for the appointment of judges to the Supreme Court and High Courts. Under this system, the Chief Justice of India and a group of senior judges recommend appointments, which are then confirmed by the President of India. This process ensures judicial independence.
Previous Chief Justices
Before Justice Gupta, Justice Guhanathan Narendar served as the Chief Justice of the Uttarakhand High Court until January 9, 2026. Such transitions reflect routine retirements and new appointments based on seniority and merit in the higher judiciary.
📌 Key Takeaways from Appointment of Justice Manoj Kumar Gupta as Chief Justice of Uttarakhand High Court
| S. No. | Key Takeaway |
|---|---|
| 1 | Justice Manoj Kumar Gupta has been appointed as the Chief Justice of the Uttarakhand High Court effective from January 10, 2026. |
| 2 | His appointment was recommended by the Supreme Court Collegium and cleared by the Government of India. |
| 3 | Prior to this, he served as a judge of the Allahabad High Court and also acted briefly as Acting Chief Justice there. |
| 4 | The Uttarakhand High Court is the highest judicial authority in the state, established in 2000 and headquartered at Nainital. |
| 5 | Understanding judicial appointments and roles of Chief Justices is important for exams like UPSC, Judicial Services, PSCs, and Law exams. |
FAQs — Justice Manoj Kumar Gupta Appointed Chief Justice of Uttarakhand High Court
Q1: Who has been appointed as the Chief Justice of Uttarakhand High Court?
A1: Justice Manoj Kumar Gupta has been appointed as the Chief Justice of the Uttarakhand High Court.
Q2: When did Justice Manoj Kumar Gupta assume the office of Chief Justice?
A2: He assumed office on January 10, 2026.
Q3: What is the role of the Chief Justice in a High Court?
A3: The Chief Justice oversees administration, judicial functions, case management, and ensures the rule of law is maintained in the state.
Q4: Which body recommends the appointment of Chief Justices in India?
A4: The Supreme Court Collegium, headed by the Chief Justice of India, recommends appointments of Chief Justices and judges.
Q5: Where is the Uttarakhand High Court located?
A5: The Uttarakhand High Court is headquartered in Nainital, Uttarakhand.
Q6: Why is this appointment significant for government exam aspirants?
A6: It is important as it highlights the Collegium system, judicial appointments, and High Court administration, which are key topics in Indian Polity and Governance sections for UPSC, PSCs, Judicial Services, and Law exams.
Q7: From which High Court was Justice Manoj Kumar Gupta transferred?
A7: He was previously serving as a judge in the Allahabad High Court and had acted as Acting Chief Justice there.
Q8: When was the Uttarakhand High Court established?
A8: The Uttarakhand High Court was established on 9 November 2000, after the formation of the state.
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