Question

A High Court consists of a Chief Justice and other judges whose number the Parliament may fix from time to time. As regards the composition of the High Court, answer the following questions: 

1. How are the Chief Justice and other Judges of the High Court appointed?
2. State three qualifications for appointment as a Judge of the High Court.
3. Mention two ways in which the Constitution ensures the independence and impartiality of the High Courts. 

Answer 1

1. The President of India appoints the Chief Justice of a High Court after consulting with the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court and the state governor. The President also appoints other High Court judges. The President consults with the Chief Justice of India, the State Governor, and the High Court Chief Justice when appointing a judge to the High Court.
2. Candidates must be Indian citizens, have held a judicial post for at least 10 years, or have been advocates of a High Court or Courts for at least 10 years to be appointed as judges of the High Court.
3. The High Courts' independence is protected by providing security of tenure, salaries, and allowances for judges. The independence of High Courts is maintained through the following measures:
   
   1. We have complete control over our work procedures and establishment.
   2. The High Court can penalise individuals for contempt of court if their authority is reduced.
   3. There is no discussion in the State Legislature on the conduct of High Court judges.