Chennai — In a significant judicial appointment, Justice Sushrut Aravind Dharmadhikari of the Kerala High Court has been elevated as the Chief Justice of the Madras High Court, the Government of India announced on 26 February 2026. The appointment, made on the recommendation of the Supreme Court Collegium and approved by the President, marks a notable transition in one of India’s oldest and most prominent high courts.
Justice Dharmadhikari, who has served with distinction on the Kerala High Court since March 2021, assumed the role of Chief Justice following the retirement of the incumbent Chief Justice Manindra Mohan Shrivastava on March 5. Known for his measured jurisprudence and administrative acumen, he inherits leadership of the Madras High Court at a time when the bench is handling high-profile cases spanning constitutional law, federal disputes, social justice and civil liberties.
Born and educated in Maharashtra, Justice Dharmadhikari enrolled as an advocate in 1991 and practised extensively in civil, criminal and constitutional law before his elevation to the bench. His judicial tenure in Kerala was marked by a broad range of judgments, from environmental law and labour rights to governance issues and individual liberties. Colleagues and legal observers note his balanced approach, clarity of reasoning and respect for judicial precedent.
In assuming the Chief Justice’s office in Chennai, Justice Dharmadhikari becomes the administrative head of a high court that oversees judicial affairs in Tamil Nadu and the Union Territory of Puducherry. The Madras High Court, established in 1862, commands respect for its long-standing traditions and pivotal role in shaping law in southern India. As Chief Justice, Dharmadhikari will preside over crucial constitutional benches, allocate judicial business and guide reforms aimed at reducing case backlogs and improving judicial access.
Dharmadhikari was part of the Kerala High Court bench that paved the way for the release of ‘The Kerala Story2-Goes Beyond’ film by staying the single judge order which had put on hold the movie’s screening by 15 days.
The legal fraternity in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry has welcomed the new appointment. Senior advocates highlighted the need for steady leadership as the court navigates a packed docket that includes matters relating to election law, governance oversight and fundamental rights. Several bar associations extended formal felicitations, citing Justice Dharmadhikari’s reputation for legal clarity and administrative competence.
Justice Dharmadhikari’s appointment continues a broader pattern in Indian judicial appointments where experience across state high courts is valued in placements leading prominent benches. Legal analysts note that his experience in Kerala a state known for its active civil society and complex legal challenges equips him to lead the Madras High Court with insight and sensitivity to regional and national legal contours.
As Chief Justice, Justice Dharmadhikari also chairs the Madras High Court’s administrative committees, including those on judicial training, case management and legal aid areas seen as central to improving the overall quality and efficiency of justice delivery in the region.
With his elevation formalised and duties underway, the legal community will watch how the new Chief Justice shapes the court’s priorities, engages with emerging jurisprudential questions and continues its legacy as a vital pillar of India’s constitutional framework.
