Centre Appoints Two Additional Judges to Madras High Court

The Union government notified the appointment of judicial officers Dharmalingam Lingeswaran and Balathandayutham Karthikeyan as Additional Judges of the Madras High Court.

Background and legal issue

The Supreme Court Collegium recommended the two officers for elevation on May 18, 2026. Their appointments followed an earlier set of clearances in which other recommended candidates had been appointed.

Court's reasoning and legal position

The notification is an executive appointment action taken under the constitutional procedure for High Court judges. It is distinct from the date on which the newly appointed judges take the prescribed oath and begin sitting.

Operative effect and next step

The two officers may assume judicial office following completion of the formalities. The development concerns court strength and administration, not a ruling on a contested case.