In a distinguished ceremony at Raj Bhavan, Justice Rajiv Shakdher officially assumed his role as the Chief Justice of the Himachal Pradesh High Court. The oath was administered by Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla, with many notable dignitaries in attendance. This event not only marks a key moment for the judiciary but also underscores the significance of Justice Shakdher’s remarkable career in law.
Chief Secretary Prabodh Saxena led the formal proceedings, reading the Warrant of Appointment issued by the President of India. Among the esteemed guests were Agriculture Minister Chander Kumar, Public Works Minister Vikramaditya Singh, and Town & Country Planning Minister Rajesh Dharmani, along with other senior officials from the government and judiciary.
A legal journey marked by excellence
Justice Rajiv Shakdher’s illustrious career spans more than three decades, specializing in civil, constitutional, taxation, and corporate law. Born on October 19, 1962, he holds a B.Com (Hons.), a CA degree, and an LL.B. He was enrolled as an advocate in 1987 and has practiced extensively before the Supreme Court of India and the Delhi High Court.
First appointed as an additional judge of the Delhi High Court in April 2008, Justice Shakdher was confirmed as a permanent judge in 2011. His career further expanded when he was transferred to the Madras High Court in 2016 before returning to the Delhi High Court in 2018. Now, as the Chief Justice of the Himachal Pradesh High Court, his vast legal expertise is expected to greatly benefit the state’s judiciary.
Himachal’s judicial leadership strengthened
The swearing-in of Justice Shakdher comes at a crucial time for Himachal Pradesh’s legal landscape. His leadership and deep understanding of law are seen as pivotal for improving judicial processes in the state. Dignitaries such as State Congress President Pratibha Singh, State BJP President Rajiv Bindal, Advocate General Anup Kumar Rattan, and Director General of Police Dr. Atul Verma expressed their confidence in Justice Shakdher’s appointment, hoping his tenure will ensure a more robust judicial framework.
Family members of Justice Shakdher were also present to celebrate this milestone in his distinguished career, along with a host of other prominent guests including Justice P.S. Rana, Chairman of the Himachal Pradesh State Human Rights Commission, and State Election Commissioner Anil Khachi.
A momentous occasion for Himachal Pradesh
The swearing-in ceremony at Raj Bhavan, Shimla, was a grand event attended by numerous political and judicial dignitaries. Lady Governor Janaki Shukla, along with various board and corporation leaders, was also present. Justice Shakdher’s new role is seen as a positive step for the future of Himachal Pradesh’s judiciary.
