India's Supreme Court Welcomes Five New Judges
In a significant move to bolster its judicial capacity, India's Supreme Court has appointed five new judges, bringing its total strength closer to the newly expanded sanctioned count of 38. The Union Minister of State for Law and Justice, Arjun Ram Meghwal, announced these appointments on June 1, 2026, via social media, confirming that the President of India made the appointments after consulting with the Chief Justice of India.
These appointments come at a critical juncture, as the Indian judicial system faces a heavy caseload and increasing demands for efficient justice delivery. The new judges bring decades of legal experience from various high courts across the country.
New Judicial Appointments: Who Are They?
The five distinguished individuals appointed to the Supreme Court include four serving High Court Chief Justices and a prominent senior advocate. Their elevation is expected to enhance the court's diverse expertise and representation.
Senior Advocate V. Mohana
A highly respected lawyer from Tamil Nadu, Senior Advocate V. Mohana's appointment is particularly notable. She becomes only the second woman in India's history to be directly elevated from the Bar to the Supreme Court, following Justice Indu Malhotra in 2018. Her inclusion is widely seen as an important step toward improving gender diversity and representation within the higher judiciary.
Justice Sheel Nagu
Currently serving as the Chief Justice of the Punjab and Haryana High Court, Justice Sheel Nagu boasts nearly four decades in the legal profession. He began his career as an advocate in Madhya Pradesh, specializing in constitutional and civil law, before his elevation to the bench. Known for his deep administrative and judicial experience, he has presided over numerous significant cases.
Justice Shree Chandrashekhar
Justice Shree Chandrashekhar's journey to the Supreme Court includes his tenure at the Jharkhand High Court and his leadership role at the Bombay High Court. Recognized for his proficiency in both civil and criminal matters, he has contributed to several landmark rulings. His appointment also strengthens the representation of eastern India in the nation's highest court.
Justice Sanjeev Sachdeva
Justice Sanjeev Sachdeva, presently the Chief Justice of the Madhya Pradesh High Court, started his legal practice in Delhi. An alumnus of the University of Delhi’s Campus Law Centre, he has handled a wide array of constitutional, commercial, and civil disputes. Colleagues frequently commend him for his balanced approach and clarity in legal reasoning.
Justice Arun Palli
Heading the High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, Justice Arun Palli brings extensive experience from the Punjab and Haryana judicial system. Throughout his time on the bench, he has addressed complex constitutional and administrative law matters, earning recognition for his detailed and practical judgments.