Historic Elevations: First Manipur Judge to Supreme Court and Diversity in the Bench from Tamil Nadu

Justice N Kotiswar Singh from Manipur and R Mahadevan from Tamil Nadu have been elevated to the Supreme Court, adding North-East representation and diversity to the Bench, respectively. The swearing-in by CJI D Y Chandrachud completes the Supreme Court's full strength of 34 judges for now.

In a historic move, Justice N Kotiswar Singh of Manipur and R Mahadevan of Tamil Nadu were sworn in as Supreme Court judges on Thursday. This marks the first time a judge from Manipur has been elevated to the apex court.

Chief Justice of India D Y Chandrachud administered the oath, marking the full strength of 34 judges in the Supreme Court. This strength will be maintained until the retirement of Justice Hima Kohli in 2024, followed by CJI Chandrachud later that year.

The Supreme Court Collegium had recommended the appointments on July 11, emphasizing the importance of representation and diversity on the Bench. Justice Singh's appointment provides North-East representation, while Justice Mahadevan's appointment highlights diversity from backward communities.

(With inputs from agencies.)