New Delhi: Justice Lisa Gill on Wednesday became the first woman to be appointed as the Chief Justice of the Andhra Pradesh High Court. Her elevation marks a significant milestone in the judiciary of the state.

The Supreme Court Collegium had recommended her name for elevation on 26 February.

Collegium’s policy decision and transfer

The Supreme Court Collegium also adopted a policy decision stating that a judge proposed to head a High Court should be transferred to that court approximately two months before taking charge as Chief Justice.

The Collegium observed that this arrangement would allow the judge to become well acquainted with the functioning and affairs of the respective High Court, enabling a smoother assumption of office upon the retirement of the incumbent Chief Justice.

In line with this decision, Justice Gill was transferred from the Punjab and Haryana High Court to the Andhra Pradesh High Court ahead of her appointment as Chief Justice.

Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal confirmed Justice Gill’s appointment through a post on X.

Retirement of incumbent Chief Justice

The current Chief Justice, Dhiraj Singh Thakur, is scheduled to retire on Friday upon attaining the age of 62 years.

Chief Minister’s congratulations

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu extended his congratulations to Justice Lisa Gill on Thursday, describing her appointment as the first woman Chief Justice of the Andhra Pradesh High Court as a “historic milestone” that strengthens women’s representation in the higher judiciary.

“My heartiest felicitations to Hon’ble Justice Lisa Gill on her appointment as the first woman Chief Justice of the Andhra Pradesh High Court,” Naidu said in a post on X.

He further highlighted her distinguished legal career, noting that she has handled a wide range of civil, criminal, and constitutional law matters with notable competence and has earned respect for her commitment to justice.

Over the years, Justice Gill has built a distinguished and exemplary legal career, adeptly handling a wide spectrum of matters spanning civil, criminal and constitutional laws, earning deep respect for her commitment to justice, the Chief Minister said.

“I wish Justice Gill a successful, inspiring, and impactful tenure in upholding the rule of law and delivering justice with wisdom and integrity,” he added.

Agency inputs