The Karnataka High Court is one of the most important judicial institutions in India. It is headed by the Chief Justice, who plays a vital role in the administration of the court, allocation of cases, and reform of the judicial system. Those appointed to this post facilitate the functioning of the court with their legal acumen, experience, and administrative ability.
Establishment of the High Court
The Karnataka High Court (originally the Mysore High Court) was established in 1884. It functions in the historic Attara Office Building in the heart of Bangalore city. Initially established as a court of the Mysore state, this institution was later converted into the Chief Court of the Karnataka state.
List of Chief Justices
Till now, several eminent persons have served as Chief Justices of the Karnataka High Court. Here is a list of some of the prominent Chief Justices:
- Justice Robert Benson (1884 – 1890)
- Just. D. F. Muller (1890 – 1895)
- Just. G. S. Wilkin (1895 – 1900)
- Just. H. B. Gribble (1900 – 1905)
- Just. John Edwards (1905 – 1910)
- Just. S. Rajagopalachari (1930 – 1935)
- Just. N. S. N. M. Iyer (1955 – 1960)
- Just. H. S. Das (1960 – 1965)
- Justice H. V. Patil (1977 – 1979)
- Justice U. L. Bhatt (1991 – 1993)
- Just. S. R. Nayak (2005 – 2007)
- Justice G. S. Patel (2014 – 2015)
- Just. Abay Srinivasa Oka (2019 – 2021)
- Just. Ritu Raj Awasthi (2021 – 2022)
- Justice Prasanna B. Varale (2022 – 2024)
- Just. N. V. Anjaria (2024 – Present)
Note: The above list includes only the prominent and recent Chief Justices. For a complete and accurate list and tenure, it is best to visit the official website of the Karnataka High Court.
Contribution of Chief Justices
Each Chief Justice during his tenure has played a significant role in reforming the judicial system, introducing technology-based services, and providing justice to the public. In recent years, there has been an increase in speedy disposal of cases, e-court system, and public awareness programs.
Conclusion
The list of Chief Justices of the Karnataka High Court reflects the judicial history of the state. Their service and leadership will always strengthen the judicial system of the state. We hope that in the future also, under the leadership of the judges, the court will achieve excellence in providing justice to the common man.
