Newly appointed Madras High Court Chief Justice Sushrut Arvind Dharmadhikari on Friday highlighted the Bar’s vital role in the justice delivery system. He said the quality of judicial functioning depends greatly on the assistance lawyers provide to the Bench.
Speaking to members of the Bar after taking oath as the 55th Chief Justice of the Madras High Court, Justice Dharmadhikari said the Bench and the Bar must work closely to preserve the dignity and effectiveness of the institution.
“The Bench and the Bar are often described as two wheels of the same chariot. However, I prefer to see us as partners in the quest. A judge is only as good as the assistance they receive from the Bar,” he said.
Three Priorities For His Tenure
Justice Dharmadhikari said three areas would guide his tenure as Chief Justice. These are reducing case pendency, increasing the use of technology in the justice system, and supporting young lawyers.
On pendency, he said timely justice requires collective effort. He urged both the Bench and the Bar to ensure that the system remains efficient and responsive.
“(Regarding) reduction of pendency – we must work together to ensure that justice delayed is justice denied remains a warning we heed, not a reality we accept,” he said.
He also urged lawyers to avoid unnecessary adjournments and discourage fruitless litigation.
Focus On Technology And Access To Justice
Justice Dharmadhikari said the Court would continue modernising its systems to improve access to justice for litigants.
“We will continue to modernise our systems, making the court more accessible to the common litigant through e-filing and hybrid hearings,” he said.
He added that digitisation and simpler procedures would help create a more citizen-centric justice delivery system.
Support For Young Lawyers
The Chief Justice also stressed the need to encourage junior members of the Bar. He said the institution’s future rests in the hands of young advocates and called for an atmosphere of support and mentorship.
“The future of this institution lies in the hands of its young advocates,” he said.
Remarks On Appointment
Justice Dharmadhikari described his appointment as Chief Justice of one of India’s oldest chartered High Courts as both a milestone and a solemn responsibility.
“The institution is greater than any individual and rests upon independence, transparency and public confidence,” he said.
He added that he would discharge his duties without fear or favour, affection or ill will.
Justice Dharmadhikari also thanked the Supreme Court Collegium for recommending his appointment. He specifically expressed gratitude to Chief Justice of India Justice Surya Kant and Justices Vikram Nath and JK Maheshwari.
Background Of The Chief Justice
Earlier, Advocate General PS Raman welcomed the new Chief Justice and referred to his professional background. He said Justice Dharmadhikari began legal practice in 1992 under his uncle, former Advocate General of Madhya Pradesh YS Dharmadhikari.
Justice Dharmadhikari became a judge of the Madhya Pradesh High Court in April 2016. In April 2025, authorities transferred him to the Kerala High Court. He has now taken charge as the Chief Justice of the Madras High Court.
He succeeds Justice Manindra Mohan Shrivastava, who retired earlier this week.
