What is the role of State government in appointment of High Court Chief Justice? | Explained
The Punjab government has challenged the Centre's appointment of a High Court Chief Justice, arguing that the state's consultative role was bypassed. While the state has a constitutional right to be consulted, legal experts clarify that it lacks the power to veto judicial appointments.
Why it matters
It highlights the ongoing tension between state governments and the central authority regarding the balance of power in judicial appointments.
The story so far: The Punjab Cabinet on Sunday (September 6, 2026) evening passed a resolution against the Centre notifying the appointment of Ashwani Kumar Mishra as the Chief Justice of the Punjab and Haryana High Court, claiming it was done without awaiting the State government’s views, bypassing Constitutional norms and set procedures.
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann also wrote separate letters to President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging the Centre not to move forward with the administration of oath to Justice Mishra, which was scheduled for Monday (September 7, 2026), “till the State government’s concerns are adequately addressed”.
The oath ceremony was not attended by Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann, while Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini was present. The State government had demanded that Justice Mishra should not be administered the oath till its views are taken.
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