The Punjab State Cabinet passed an official executive resolution registering formal constitutional objections against the Supreme Court Collegium’s recent recommendation for the post of Chief Justice of the Punjab and Haryana High Court.
Chaired by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann in Chandigarh, the extraordinary cabinet assembly expressed grave concern over the perceived disregard for judicial seniority and adequate regional representation from the Punjab bar and bench. The resolution emphasized that constitutional conventions require meaningful consultation with elected state executives to ensure institutional balance within the higher judiciary.
Cabinet ministers contended that repeated elevation of judges from external state cadres to head the joint high court undermines local jurisprudence and administrative continuity. The resolution noted that the state government will formally communicate its constitutional reservations to the Union Ministry of Law and Justice and petition the President of India to reconsider the collegium’s dossier.
Senior legal advocates and bar council representatives in Chandigarh echoed the cabinet’s sentiment, pointing out that several senior judges hailing from the parent high court cadre remain eligible for chief justice elevation across Indian high courts. State advocate general officials were instructed to prepare detailed legal memoranda outlining historical conventions governing joint-cadre high courts.
Legal scholars cited Article 217 of the Constitution regarding consultative procedures between state governors and the chief justice of India, pointing out that regional sensitivities often necessitate balanced appointments. The cabinet affirmed that an all-party delegation will seek an appointment with federal authorities to present their constitutional case.
The Punjab government reaffirmed its respect for judicial independence while urging judicial administrative authorities to establish transparent criteria that respect equitable regional representation in top judicial appointments.
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Sources:
https://www.aajtak.in/breakingnews/story/latest-breaking-news-in-hindi-6-september-2026-ntc-rmxk-2637227-2026-09-06