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Politics
Punjab Government Says Consent Not Sought in New High Court Chief Justice Appointment
✍️ The Times of India
🗓 07 Sep 2026, 08:38 AM
👁 4
The Punjab state government has formally objected to the recent appointment of a new Chief Justice of the Punjab and Haryana High Court, claiming it was made without its prior consent.
The Punjab government lodged a protest with the central government after the appointment of a new Chief Justice for the Punjab and Haryana High Court was announced. In a statement, the state administration asserted that the decision was taken without consulting the state, violating established conventions of federal consultation.
Officials from the Punjab Department of Law highlighted that the High Court's leadership directly impacts the administration of justice in the state, and therefore the state’s view should be sought before such a senior judicial posting. The objection does not challenge the qualifications of the appointee but underscores procedural concerns.
The central government has not yet responded publicly to the Punjab government's grievance. The matter is expected to be discussed in upcoming inter‑governmental meetings, with both sides seeking a resolution that respects constitutional norms and the collaborative spirit between the Union and the state.
Legal experts note that while the appointment of High Court judges is constitutionally the prerogative of the President, the collegium system traditionally involves consultation with state governments. The current dispute may set a precedent for future appointments across India.
Officials from the Punjab Department of Law highlighted that the High Court's leadership directly impacts the administration of justice in the state, and therefore the state’s view should be sought before such a senior judicial posting. The objection does not challenge the qualifications of the appointee but underscores procedural concerns.
The central government has not yet responded publicly to the Punjab government's grievance. The matter is expected to be discussed in upcoming inter‑governmental meetings, with both sides seeking a resolution that respects constitutional norms and the collaborative spirit between the Union and the state.
Legal experts note that while the appointment of High Court judges is constitutionally the prerogative of the President, the collegium system traditionally involves consultation with state governments. The current dispute may set a precedent for future appointments across India.