The Central Government has officially notified the appointment of two senior judicial officers—Sanjay Parihar and Shahzad Azeem—as Judges of the High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh.
Their appointment comes after the Supreme Court Collegium recommended their elevation on April 16, 2025. The recommendation was made based on their qualifications, judicial experience, and service record as judicial officers in the Union Territory.
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Both judicial officers have served for several years in the subordinate judiciary of Jammu and Kashmir and are well-respected for their integrity, efficiency, and knowledge of law.
“The Supreme Court Collegium in its resolution dated April 16, 2025, recommended the elevation of Sanjay Parihar and Shahzad Azeem as Judges of the High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh.”
The notification of their appointment was issued by the Ministry of Law and Justice, Government of India, marking a significant step in strengthening the judicial system in the region. This move also adds to the bench strength of the High Court, which has been functioning with a limited number of judges.
“With the approval of the Hon’ble President of India, the appointments have been notified as per the procedure laid down under Article 217 of the Constitution of India.”
This appointment is part of the Centre’s ongoing efforts to fill judicial vacancies across High Courts in India. The elevation of experienced judicial officers like Parihar and Azeem is expected to enhance the functioning and efficiency of the High Court.
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The appointments will come into effect after the judges take oath of office in a formal ceremony, the date of which will be notified by the High Court administration.
These developments follow the consistent focus of the Supreme Court Collegium on filling up judicial vacancies in High Courts to ensure timely justice and reduce pendency of cases.
“The Collegium has taken into account all relevant factors, including seniority and merit, before recommending these appointments.”
The appointment of Sanjay Parihar and Shahzad Azeem is widely welcomed in the legal fraternity and is expected to contribute positively to the judicial administration in the region.
