3 Delhi HC judges take oath, strength increases to 43

Three new judges on Thursday took oath of office, taking the strength of the Delhi High Court to 43. Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya administered oath of office to Justices Vinod Kumar, Shail Jain and Madhu Jain.

This development marks a further step toward addressing the mounting backlog of cases in the court, though the sanctioned strength remains at 60.

The appointments were based on recommendations made earlier this month by the Supreme Court Collegium, which is currently headed by Chief Justice of India BR Gavai and includes Justices Surya Kant and Vikram Nath. All three appointees were elevated from the judicial service.

The Union Government approved the Collegium’s recommendations earlier this week, clearing the way for the appointments.

The oath-taking comes just days after six other judges were administered the oath on Monday, signalling a significant week of additions to the Delhi High Court bench.

Despite the fresh appointments, the court continues to operate at a considerable shortfall, with 17 vacancies still remaining. The increased strength, however, is expected to ease the burden on the judiciary to some extent.