Collegium names Justice Meenakshi M. Rai as Patna HC Chief Justice

The Supreme Court Collegium has recommended the appointment of Justice Meenakshi M. Rai as the next Chief Justice of the High Court of Judicature at Patna. The recommendation was made during the Collegium meeting held on 22nd May, 2026. 

The recommendation comes in view of the retirement of the incumbent Chief Justice of the Patna High Court on 4th June, 2026.  

About Justice Meenakshi M. Rai

Justice Meenakshi M. Rai is currently serving as a Judge of the High Court of Sikkim and has now been proposed to take over the leadership of the Patna High Court following the vacancy caused by the retirement. 

Justice Meenakshi M. Rai has been serving on the Bench of the Sikkim High Court and is among the senior judicial figures from the northeastern region. She was elevated from subordinate judiciary as Judge of the Sikkim High Court on 15th April, 2015, being the first lady from Sikkim to be elevated to the post. She has served as the Acting Chief Justice of the Sikkim High Court. Her elevation as Chief Justice of the Patna High Court would mark a significant administrative responsibility in one of the country’s prominent constitutional courts. 

Retiring Patna HC Chief Justice

The outgoing Chief Justice of the Patna High Court, Justice Sangam Kumar Sahoo, is set to retire on 4th June, 2026, paving the way for the transition in leadership. Justice Sangam Kumar Sahoo served the Bar for 25 years before being elevated to the Bench in 2014. 

Way Forward

The recommendation by the Collegium is part of the process for appointment of High Court Chief Justices, subject to approval by the Central Government and issuance of the warrant of appointment.