Justice Revati Mohite Dere Assumes Office as Chief Justice of Meghalaya High Court: A Milestone in Judicial Leadership
Historic Swearing-In Ceremony
The judicial landscape of India witnessed a significant milestone when Justice Revati Mohite Dere took the oath of office as the Chief Justice of the Meghalaya High Court. The ceremonial oath-taking took place on January 10, 2025, at the Durbar Hall of Lok Bhavan, administered by Meghalaya's Governor, Mr. CH Vijayashankar. This appointment represents a momentous occasion in the history of the Meghalaya High Court, as Justice Dere becomes only the second woman to lead this prestigious institution, following in the footsteps of Justice T Meena Kumari.
The significance of this appointment resonates deeply within Meghalaya, a state renowned for its matrilineal societal framework. Justice Dere's elevation to this constitutional position carries symbolic importance and inspires renewed confidence among those seeking judicial redress. Her distinguished career and unblemished reputation, widely recognized in the contemporary digital era, precede her arrival in Shillong.
Constitutional Process and Transfer
The appointment followed constitutional procedures outlined under Articles 217 and 222 of the Constitution of India. The Union Government formally notified her transfer on January 1, 2026, subsequent to the Supreme Court Collegium's recommendation dated December 18, 2025. Justice Dere assumes charge from Justice Soumen Sen, who has been transferred to the Kerala High Court.
Legal commentators and constitutional experts have widely praised this appointment as a progressive step toward achieving balanced gender representation within India's higher judiciary. This development signals institutional commitment toward inclusivity at the constitutional plane, reinforcing democratic values within the judicial framework.
Vision and Philosophy
Prior to assuming her new responsibilities, Justice Revati Mohite Dere articulated her judicial philosophy during her farewell proceedings at the Bombay High Court. She emphasized that judicial work transcends mere legal interpretation, stating unequivocally that judges must uphold public confidence in the judiciary. During the full court reference organized to honor her departure, she revealed that serving as a judge represented a calling rather than merely a professional pursuit.
Justice Dere held the position of one of the most senior woman judges at the Bombay High Court, which ranks as India's second-largest High Court by caseload. For reference, the Allahabad High Court holds the distinction of being the largest High Court globally, not merely within India or Asia.
Educational Background and Early Career
Born in Pune, Justice Dere's academic journey began at St. Joseph's High School in Pashan, Pune. She completed her Higher Secondary Certificate from Ferguson College (Arts) in Pune, where she earned recognition through a National Merit Certificate for outstanding academic performance.
She pursued the Five Year Law Course at the prestigious Symbiosis Law College in Pune, being part of its inaugural batch. Her academic excellence continued as she graduated with First Class with Distinction in BSL and LLB, securing second position in the University of Pune merit list. At that time, Symbiosis Law College functioned under Pune University's jurisdiction, though it has since achieved independent university status.
Her pursuit of advanced legal education led her to the University of Cambridge, UK, where she completed her LLM. She was honored with the Cambridge Commonwealth Trust Scholarship for her Master's program, reflecting her academic prowess.