CJI Surya Kant takes note of concerns raised by Justice Sandeep Mehta

In a press release issued concerning vacant positions of Chief Justice in several High Courts, CJI Surya Kant has assured that the Collegium is already working on the appointment of Chief Justices in the remaining High Courts. CJI Surya Kant further assured that concerns raised in letters written by sitting Judge of Supreme Court, Justice Sandeep Mehta, have already been taken note of and emphasised that allegations against a sitting judge must be dealt with strictly through the established institutional mechanism. As of 1 August 2026, position of Chief Justice for seven High Courts¹ lie vacant and they are being administered by their Acting Chief Justices. Furthermore, the Supreme Court Collegium has recommended appointment of Chief Justices of four High Courts, namely- Patna High Court, Calcutta High Court, Bombay High Court, and Punjab and Haryana High Court

The Chief Justice of India further assured that concerns raised in the letters are being examined at the appropriate level and any decision can only be taken after the parties concerned are heard and the materials placed on record are considered.

The press release further highlighted the Chief Justice of India’s stance that the contents of the letters by Justice Mehta cannot be adjudicated in the public domain and that the Acting Chief Justice, Justice Sharma, must be given a fair opportunity to place his response before any conclusion is reached. The fact that allegations have been made, therefore, cannot by itself be treated as a finding against the judge.

CJI Surya Kant further emphasised that individual complaints concerning judges to be determined through competing claims in the media cannot be allowed by the Supreme Court.

Also read: Know Thy Judge | Supreme Court of India: Justice Sandeep Mehta’s stellar career and notable judgments

Read the Press Note below