Imphal: Justice Siddharth Mridul has taken the helm as the seventh Chief Justice of the Manipur High Court. The swearing-in ceremony, held at the Raj Bhavan in Imphal, was administered by Manipur’s Governor, Anusuiya Uikey. Appointed by the President of India on October 16, 2023, Justice Mridul brings a wealth of legal experience to this esteemed position, having previously served in the Delhi High Court.
During a post-swearing-in media interaction, Chief Justice Siddharth Mridul articulated his dedication to addressing the substantial backlog of 3,335 pending cases in the Manipur High Court. He conveyed his commitment to expeditiously resolving these cases, ensuring that justice is delivered promptly. The Chief Justice also held discussions with the Governor, focusing on the ongoing situation in Manipur and the joint efforts of the state and central governments to restore peace and harmony among different communities.
Hailing from Delhi’s Hindu College and holding an LLB from the Campus Law Centre, Faculty of Law, University of Delhi, Justice Mridul’s legal career has been marked by his diligent service. He was enrolled with the Bar Council of Delhi in 1986 and subsequently engaged in various legal jurisdictions, including the Delhi High Court. His involvement extended to participation in committees dealing with child labor rehabilitation, addressing illegal constructions, and optimizing the functioning of Safdarjung Hospital.
Justice Mridul’s career trajectory led to his appointment as an additional judge of the Delhi High Court in 2008, a position he later assumed permanently on May 26, 2009. His appointment as Chief Justice of the Manipur High Court follows recommendations from the Supreme Court Collegium, which were prompted by the ethnic unrest in the northeastern border state.
The swearing-in ceremony drew the presence of several dignitaries, including Chief Minister Nongthombam Biren Singh, his council of ministers, Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs), and top-ranking civil and police officials. Chief Minister Biren Singh expressed his optimism that the appointment of a seasoned and competent Chief Justice would play a pivotal role in restoring peace and normalcy to the state.
