With over three decades of experience in civil, criminal, and judicial administration, Justice Somashekar is seen as a steady and capable hand to guide the Manipur High Court during a period of complex legal and social challenges.
BY PC Bureau
In a key judicial development, the Supreme Court Collegium has recommended the appointment of Justice Kempaiah Somashekar, currently serving on the Karnataka High Court bench, as the next Chief Justice of the Manipur High Court. This decision comes in light of the imminent retirement of Chief Justice D. Krishnakumar, who will demit office on May 21, 2025.
The Collegium resolution, passed on May 15, is aimed at ensuring a seamless transition in the leadership of the Manipur High Court, which has been at the forefront of handling several sensitive legal and constitutional issues in recent times.
Justice Somashekar brings with him over three decades of legal and judicial experience, marked by deep engagement with civil, criminal, and administrative matters. Beginning his legal practice on January 27, 1990, he built a reputation as a diligent practitioner in Mysore and Chamarajanagar, handling a broad range of legal issues.
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On June 17, 1998, Justice Somashekar entered the judiciary directly as a District and Sessions Judge, and went on to serve in several crucial judicial capacities across Karnataka. His notable tenures include postings as Additional District and Sessions Judge in Bijapur (now Vijayapura) and later at the City Civil Court in Bangalore.
His administrative acumen was equally recognized — he held the important positions of Registrar (Judicial) and Registrar (Vigilance) at the Karnataka High Court, where he contributed to strengthening internal judicial oversight and discipline.
Justice Somashekar was elevated to the High Court bench as an Additional Judge on November 14, 2016, and confirmed as a Permanent Judge on November 3, 2018.
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The Collegium’s recommendation now awaits formal approval by the central government, following which Justice Somashekar is expected to assume the role of Chief Justice in Imphal — a jurisdiction that has drawn national attention due to its complex socio-political landscape and active litigation environment.
Legal observers believe Justice Somashekar’s diverse judicial background and steady administrative hand make him a fitting choice to steer the Manipur High Court at a crucial juncture.
