Justice M S Sonak Appointed Jharkhand High Court’s New Chief Justice
Justice M S Sonak has been named the new Chief Justice of the Jharkhand High Court. The appointment follows a wider reshuffle of High Court Chief Justices across the country. His elevation comes after the Supreme Court Collegium recommended him for the role on December 18, 2025.
The Central Government officially notified the decision on Thursday. This move is part of a series of transfers and appointments affecting High Courts in Kerala, Patna, and Meghalaya as well.
Justice Sonak began his legal career in 1988 after enrolling as an advocate. He practised at the Panaji Bench of the Bombay High Court, specialising in civil and constitutional law, labour and service law, and environmental matters. His expertise also covered commercial and tax laws, company law, and public interest litigation.
In 2013, he was elevated as an Additional Judge of the Bombay High Court on June 21. His judicial experience spans over a decade before this latest appointment. Justice Sonak will take over from Chief Justice Tarlok Singh Chauhan, who is set to retire on January 8, 2026. The reshuffle also includes pending appointments, such as that of Justice Manoj Kumar Gupta. Recommended by the Collegium for the Uttarakhand High Court, his formal notification remains awaited as of January 3, 2026. Born on November 28, 1964, Justice Sonak completed his legal education in Goa. His career progression reflects a steady rise through the judicial ranks, culminating in this latest role.
The notification confirms Justice Sonak’s position as the new Chief Justice of the Jharkhand High Court. His appointment aligns with the broader reorganisation of High Court leadership nationwide. The formal transfer process will proceed as scheduled in the coming weeks.
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