In a formal ceremony held at Raj Bhavan, Justice Ashish Jitendra Desai was sworn in as the 38th Chief Justice of the Kerala High Court. The oath of office was administered by Kerala Governor Arif Mohammed Khan, officially marking the beginning of his tenure in this esteemed position. Justice Desai, who previously served as a Judge of the Gujarat High Court and briefly performed the duties of the Chief Justice of Gujarat High Court, now assumes the leadership of the Kerala judiciary.
His appointment as the Chief Justice of Kerala High Court came following the recommendation of the Supreme Court Collegium on July 6, 2023, which was initiated after the elevation of the previous Chief Justice SV Bhatt to the Supreme Court. The Centre officially notified his appointment on July 19, 2023, setting the stage for Justice Desai to take up the important responsibility of leading the judiciary in Kerala.
The swearing-in ceremony signifies an important moment for the Kerala High Court as it welcomes its new Chief Justice, who will undoubtedly play a vital role in upholding justice and judicial integrity in the state. With his vast experience and legal acumen, Justice Ashish Jitendra Desai is expected to bring renewed dedication and commitment to the cause of justice in Kerala.