The Central Government has officially appointed Justice Kempaiah Somashekar of the Karnataka High Court as the new Chief Justice of the Manipur High Court.

Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal shared the announcement on X, stating:

“In exercise of the power conferred by the Constitution of India, the President of India, after consultation with the Chief Justice of India, is pleased to appoint Shri Justice Kempaiah Somashekar, Judge of the Karnataka High Court as Chief Justice of the Manipur High Court.”

The Supreme Court Collegium had recommended his name on May 15, 2025. This appointment follows the retirement of Justice D. Krishnakumar, the current Chief Justice, on May 21.

Justice Somashekar began his legal career in 1990 and served in multiple roles, including Principal District and Sessions Judge across various districts in Karnataka. He was appointed as a High Court judge in 2016 and became permanent in 2018.

“Justice Somashekar’s experience and service make him well-suited for this important role,” a court source noted.

His appointment brings seasoned leadership to the Manipur High Court.