SHIMLA: Supreme Court of India Collegium has recommended the elevation of two senior advocates, Ranjan Sharma and Bipin Chandra Negi, and a judicial officer, Rakesh Kainthla, as judges of the High Court of Himachal Pradesh.
The Collegium , consisting of Chief Justice of India, Shri Justice Dhananjaya Y Chandrachur, Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul, and Justice Sanjeev Khanna made recommendation based on the observation that the Chief Minister and Governor of Himachal Pradesh have concurred with the recommendation.
The Collegium also consulted judges of the Supreme Court who are familiar with the affairs of the High Court of Himachal Pradesh to ascertain the suitability of the recommended candidates.
The Collegium found all three candidates suitable and noted that they have a good personal and professional image and integrity. The Department of Justice's observations and the relevant file were also considered during the evaluation process.
Advocate Ranjan Sharma has been practicing as an advocate since December 11, 1991, and was designated as a senior advocate on March 29, 2019.
Advocate Bipin Chandra Negi has been practicing at the bar for the past 28 years. He was enrolled in 1994 and was designated as a senior advocate in 2015. He has also been appointed as an amicus curiae by the High Court in several matters.
Rakesh Kainthla is a judicial officer who has joined the service on August 7, 1995. He has served in various capacities as a judicial officer in the state.
Based on their assessment, the Collegium resolved to recommend the appointment of Shri Ranjan Sharma, Shri Bipin Chand Negi, and Rakesh Khainthla as judges of the High Court of Himachal Pradesh.