Over 200 High Court Judgeship Proposals Under Review

The Lok Sabha was informed that over 200 proposals for high court judgeship submitted by various high court collegiums are under review. Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal elaborated on the appointment process, emphasizing the role of suitability, competence, and integrity in the selection process.

Over 200 proposals for high court judgeship from various high court collegiums are at different stages of review, as revealed in the Lok Sabha on Friday.

In a written response, Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal highlighted the Supreme Court Collegium's opinion that a candidate's views do not disqualify them from holding a constitutional office if they possess competence, merit, and integrity.

Historically, the government has sometimes withheld or returned names of candidates who had expressed their views as advocates. Meghwal informed the House that as an important participant in the appointment process, the government provides inputs on candidates' suitability, competence, and integrity, which are submitted to the SC Collegium for further advice.

Currently, 205 proposals recommended by various high court collegiums are in various stages of review. Meghwal explained that the appointment of judges in the SC and HCs is a collaborative and integrated process involving consultation and approval from several constitutional authorities at both state and central levels.