On Sunday, Justice Manmohan took the oath as the Chief Justice of the Delhi High Court, marking a significant moment in the judicial landscape of the capital. The ceremony, held at the Raj Niwas, the Lieutenant Governor’s secretariat, was presided over by Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena. The event was graced by the presence of several dignitaries, including Delhi Chief Minister Atishi, underscoring the importance of this appointment.
Justice Manmohan’s elevation to the highest judicial position in the Delhi High Court is a testament to his impressive legal career spanning over three decades. He had been serving as the Acting Chief Justice since November 9, 2023, following the appointment of Chief Justice Satish Chandra Sharma to the Supreme Court.
But who is Justice Manmohan, the man now entrusted with leading the Delhi High Court? Let’s delve into his journey:
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Family Legacy:
Justice Manmohan hails from a distinguished family. He is the son of the late Jagmohan, a prominent bureaucrat-turned-politician who served as the Governor of Jammu and Kashmir and the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi. This lineage undoubtedly instilled in him a strong sense of public service.*
Early Life and Education:
Born in Delhi on December 17, 1962, Justice Manmohan received his early education at the prestigious Modern School, Barakhamba Road. He went on to pursue a Bachelor of Arts (Hons.) in History from Hindu College, University of Delhi, demonstrating a keen interest in the humanities. He then earned his LL.B. from the Campus Law Centre, University of Delhi, in 1987, laying the foundation for his illustrious legal career.*
A Stellar Legal Career:
After being enrolled as an Advocate with the Bar Council of Delhi in 1987, Justice Manmohan’s legal journey took flight. He primarily practiced in the Supreme Court of India and the Delhi High Court, showcasing expertise in a wide range of legal areas, including Civil, Criminal, Constitutional, Taxation, Arbitration, Trademark, and Service litigation.*
Government Advocate:
His dedication and legal prowess led him to serve as Senior Panel Advocate for the Government of India in the Delhi High Court and the Supreme Court. This role allowed him to contribute significantly to the legal system while representing the interests of the nation.*
Senior Advocate:
Justice Manmohan’s exceptional skills and reputation earned him the prestigious designation of Senior Advocate by the Delhi High Court on January 18, 2003. He handled several high-profile cases during this period, including those involving the Dabhol Power Company, Hyderabad Nizam’s Jewellery Trust matter, and the Claridges Hotel dispute.*
Notable Cases:
Justice Manmohan’s expertise extended to high-profile matters involving prominent individuals and corporations. He dealt with the Modi family’s legal issues and Gujarat Ambuja Cement’s sales tax disputes, showcasing his ability to navigate complex legal scenarios.*
Beyond the Courtroom:
Justice Manmohan’s commitment to the legal field extends beyond the courtroom. He actively participates in extrajudicial activities, engaging in various national and international seminars and conferences. This demonstrates his dedication to sharing his knowledge and fostering dialogue within the legal community.*
Judicial Journey:
Justice Manmohan’s journey to the pinnacle of the Delhi High Court began with his appointment as an Additional Judge on March 13, 2008. He became a Permanent Judge on December 17, 2009, further solidifying his position within the judicial system.Justice Manmohan’s appointment as Chief Justice is not just a recognition of his legal acumen but also a testament to his commitment to justice and upholding the rule of law. His vast experience, combined with his dedication to extrajudicial activities, makes him a well-rounded jurist well-equipped to lead the Delhi High Court in the years to come.
