Gangtok, May 23: Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang has congratulated Justice Meenakshi Madan Rai on her appointment as the Chief Justice of the Patna High Court. He described this achievement as a significant source of pride and honor for the people of Sikkim.
In a statement, the Chief Minister remarked that Justice Rai’s appointment marks an important milestone. She is the first woman judge from Sikkim to attain this role. He praised her commitment, integrity, and substantial contributions to the judiciary. He believes her success will inspire both the people of Sikkim and the country.
The Chief Minister also sent warm wishes on behalf of the Government and the people of Sikkim. He pointed out that her promotion reflects many years of dedicated service and legal excellence.
Expressing confidence in her leadership, PS Golay said that the Patna High Court would continue to uphold the highest standards of justice, constitutional values, and fairness during Justice Rai’s time in office. He wished her a successful and exemplary term ahead.
At a meeting on May 22, 2026, the Supreme Court Collegium recommended that Ms. Justice Meenakshi M. Rai, who is currently a judge at the High Court of Sikkim, be appointed as the next Chief Justice of the Patna High Court. This recommendation is made as the current Chief Justice prepares to retire on June 4, 2026.
She began her judicial career in Sikkim in 1990 as the state’s first female judicial magistrate first class and civil judge. She later held several senior judicial and administrative roles, including chief judicial magistrate, district and sessions judge, registrar general of the High Court of Sikkim, and acting chief justice.
In 2015, Justice Rai became the first woman from Sikkim to be appointed as a judge of the High Court of Sikkim. Her latest promotion is celebrated nationwide as a significant achievement for both Sikkim and women in the legal field.
A wave of pride spread through Sikkim’s legal community after the Supreme Court Collegium recommended Justice Meenakshi Madan Rai as the next Chief Justice of the Patna High Court. This recommendation comes before the current Chief Justice retires on June 4, 2026.
The Bar Association of Sikkim, along with the High Court and Subordinate Courts, celebrated this as a significant moment not just for the state but for the country’s judicial history. Justice Rai, already recognized as the first female judge of the High Court of Sikkim, is now set to lead one of India’s oldest and most esteemed High Courts.
This news holds extra emotional weight as Sikkim celebrates 51 years of its integration with the Indian Union. Members of the legal community called the recommendation a proud acknowledgment of the skill and judicial excellence emerging from the Himalayan state.
In its statement, the Bar Association thanked the Supreme Court Collegium for recognizing Justice Rai’s legal talent, dedication to justice, and outstanding judicial service. The association pointed out that her time on the bench has inspired young lawyers and women in the region.
The association also expressed hope that this advancement could open doors for Justice Rai’s future appointment to the Supreme Court of India. Lawyers throughout Sikkim have shared their best wishes for what they consider a historic and impactful term at the Patna High Court.
