In a rare exercise of change in the Jharkhand judiciary, Shri Arun Kumar Rai was administered the oath as Judge of the Jharkhand High Court on February 5, 2024. Acting Chief Justice Shree Chandrashekhar administered the oath in a dignified ceremony held in the High Court building in Ranchi. The new entrant is a milestone achievement in Justice Rai’s illustrious career in law, showcasing his dedication and service to the Indian judiciary.
Early Life and Education
Having been born on 26 January 1970, to parents having long traditions of judicial affairs, Arun Kumar Rai attained early education at Patna. He graduated from Science College, Patna, with Honors in Geology and later accomplished LL.B. from the Campus Law Centre, Faculty of Law, University of Delhi. All the above educative experiences seeded the ground for his future professional practice in the field of law.
Legal Practice
Since becoming a member of the Bar Council of Delhi in 1996, Shri Rai practiced law for over 15 years in trial courts and the High Court of Delhi. He had handled criminal and civil cases, hence cumulative experience and vast knowledge with regard to numerous legal domains. All these years of vast practice appeared to shape his legal skill and expertise.
Judicial Service
Shri Rai joined judicial service as a judge on 5th May, 2012, as Additional Judicial Commissioner in Ranchi in the Jharkhand Superior Judicial Service. Displaying superior judicial acumen and administrative talents, he served in various capacities across the state, including:
- District & Additional Sessions Judge-cum-Special Judge, CBI, Dhanbad
- Principal Judge, Family Court, Bokaro
- Principal District & Sessions Judge, Hazaribagh
- Judicial Commissioner, Ranchi
Most notably, from May 2016 to June 2020, he was Member Secretary of the Jharkhand State Legal Services Authority (JHALSA). Under his tenure, JHALSA was awarded numerous awards, such as the Best State Legal Services Authority Award for 2018 and 2019 in the Eastern Zone. The organisation’s work was also acknowledged by the Limca Book of Records, India Book of Records, and World Records India.
Appointment to the High Court
The appointment process of Shri Rai to the High Court consisted of different major steps:
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- Recommendation of High Court Collegium: In September 2023, the Jharkhand High Court Collegium recommended his name for appointment as a High Court Judge.
S3WaaS - Supreme Court Collegium Clearance: Supreme Court Collegium cleared this recommendation on 18 January 2024 based on his performance at the bench and integrity. The Judgment Evaluation Committee took into account the quality of judgments authored by him as “Good,” and his Annual Confidential Reports all rated him as a “Very Good” officer rating.
- Presidential Appointment: On the suggestion of the Collegium, Shri Rai was appointed as a Judge of the Jharkhand High Court by the President of India on January 31, 2024.
The Oath Ceremony
The oath ceremony was held on 5th February 2024 at the Ranchi Jharkhand High Court. Acting Chief Justice Shree Chandrashekhar administered the oath of office upon Justice Arun Kumar Rai. The event was honored by all High Court judges, Registrar General, Advocate General Rajiv Ranjan, President of Advocate Association of Jharkhand High Court Ritu Kumar, Director General of Police, Advocate Dheeraj Kumar, and other dignitaries.
Implication of the Appointment
The appointment of Justice Rai is during a time when the Jharkhand High Court functions with 18 fewer judges than the authorized strength of 25. His extensive experience in legal practice and judicial administration will go a long way in enhancing the court’s working and the administration of justice in the state.
Conclusion
The emergence of Justice Arun Kumar Rai from the midst of practicing advocate to that of High Court Judge is a beaming example of dedication, integrity, and excellence in legal service. His treasure house of diversified experience and his flawless service record entitle him to be the jewel in the crown of the Jharkhand High Court. As he assumes his new assignment, the legal fraternity and society at large look up to his contribution towards ensuring justice and the empowerment of the judiciary in Jharkhand.
Who has become the new Chief Justice of Jharkhand High Court?
Ramachandra Rao is the chief justice of Jharkhand High Court from 25 September 2024.
Who has been sworn in as the Chief Justice of Delhi High Court recently?
Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya has been appointed as the Chief Justice of Delhi High Court.
Who is the female Judge of Jharkhand High Court?
Justice Mrs. Gyan Sudha Misra, who is currently serving as Chief Justice in the High Court of Jharkhand at Ranchi in the State of Jharkhand (India), was born in a prestigious family of Lawyers and Judges on 28th of April, 1949.
