Golmei Gaiphulshillu Kabui: First Tribal Woman Judge In Manipur HC

Meet Golmei Gaiphulshillu Kabui, a name that resonates with promise and purpose, the first woman from a scheduled tribe to don the prestigious robe of a judge in the Manipur High Court. 

It's a monumental stride, a giant leap toward a future where justice wears the colours of inclusiveness and the cloak of diversity.

The recent announcement by the Union government reflects a commitment to bridge the gaps in judicial representation. According to data presented by the government in Lok Sabha in March, out of the 575 high court judges appointed since 2018, 67 belong to the Other Backward Classes (OBC), and 17 to the Scheduled Caste (SC) category.

The latest appointments of Golmei Gaiphulshillu Kabui is a proof of the government's determination to diversify the higher judiciary.

A Journey Towards Representation

Golmei Gaiphulshillu Kabui has made history by becoming the first woman from the scheduled tribe community to serve as a judge in the Manipur High Court.

Smt. Golmei Gaiphulshillu Kabui is appointed as Judge of the Manipur High Court.#ThisIsManipur #ManipurNews pic.twitter.com/adqS1mC612

— Manipur Times (@ManipurTimes) October 14, 2023

Her appointment is an example of the spirit of inclusivity and diversity that our judiciary system embodies. The significance of this milestone cannot be overstated, as it not only breaks gender barriers but also extends a welcoming hand to communities that have historically been underrepresented in the higher echelons of the judiciary.

The journey to this momentous appointment began when the Supreme Court collegium, in January of this year, recommended the names of two exceptional judicial officers, Aribam Guneshwar Sharma and Golmei Gaiphulshillu Kabui, for elevation as judges of the Manipur High Court. This recommendation not only speaks to the credibility and competence of these officers but also showcases the forward-thinking approach of our judiciary in recognising and promoting exceptional talent.

The Manipur High Court, with a sanctioned strength of 5 judges, has been operating with just 3 judges, further underscoring the urgency of such appointments. Kabui's elevation fills a crucial void in the court's roster and contributes to the effective and efficient functioning of the judicial system in Manipur.

In addition to the issue of insufficient judicial strength, the Manipur High Court also faces the challenge of not having a permanent Chief Justice at the moment. While the appointment of Kabui is a significant step towards addressing this concern, the appointment of a Chief Justice will be equally critical to ensuring the smooth operation of the court.

Golmei Gaiphulshillu Kabui's appointment as a judge in the Manipur High Court is not just a personal triumph but a collective victory for inclusivity, diversity, and the judiciary in Manipur. It represents a step towards a more representative and robust legal system, one that ensures justice for all.

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