In a proud and historic moment for gender justice in India, four women are serving as Chief Justices of High Courts at the same time — a first in the nation’s history.
Justice Meenakshi Madan Rai took oath as Chief Justice of the Patna High Court on June 5, 2026. She joined Justice Sunita Agarwal (Gujarat High Court), Justice Revati Mohite Dere (Meghalaya High Court), and Justice Lisa Gill (Andhra Pradesh High Court).
These exceptional women judges represent a powerful breakthrough in breaking the glass ceiling within the higher judiciary. Justice Rai, the first woman judge from Sikkim, brings deep experience from the Sikkim Judicial Service. Her fellow Chief Justices have also built impressive careers marked by integrity and excellence.
This milestone signals meaningful progress and creates stronger pathways for future generations. It also raises hope as Justice B.V. Nagarathna prepares to become the first woman Chief Justice of India in 2027.
These women leaders inspire continued advocacy for diversity, equity, and excellence in the judiciary, paving the way for a more inclusive and balanced justice system.
