PHAGWARA: In a significant administrative move, the Punjab and Haryana High Court has announced the promotion of 84 judicial officers as Additional District and Sessions Judges across various districts of Punjab. The order, dated April 22, 2025, was issued following the approval of the Governor of Punjab based on the High Court’s recommendations under Rule 7(3)(a) of the Punjab Superior Judicial Service Rules, 2007.
The comprehensive order includes not only promotions but also a series of transfers and postings of both newly elevated and existing judicial officers to strengthen the justice delivery system in the state.
Among the 84 promoted officers, several notable names include Aprajita Joshi(SBS Nagar), Ms. Manpreet Kaur (Hoshiarpur), Ms. Pratima Arora (Tarn Taran), Sh. Raj Pal Rawl (Hoshiarpur), and Ms. Preeti Sukhija (Ludhiana). These promotions come with new responsibilities, with some officers assigned additional roles such as Principal Judges in Family Courts or handling Fast Track Courts focused on rape and POCSO cases.Aprajita Joshi was promoted as Additional District Session Judge(SBS Nagar).
The reshuffle includes over 50 key transfers at both District & Sessions Judge and Additional District & Sessions Judge levels. For instance, Sh. Virinder Aggarwal has been moved from Ferozepur to Faridkot, while Ms. Navjot Kaur will now head the S.A.S. Nagar judiciary as the Member Secretary of Punjab State Legal Services Authority.
Special Court Assignments: Several judges have been reassigned to sensitive posts such as Fast Track Special Courts dealing with rape and POCSO Act cases, Industrial Tribunals, and CBI Courts, indicating a focus on fast-tracking justice in critical domains.
On Deputation & Training: A number of judges are also placed on deputation to institutions like the Chandigarh Judicial Academy or are designated for special training and administrative roles to aid in systemic judicial reforms.
The order emphasizes that all officers, except those at Sr. No. 43 and 48, must immediately assume their new positions to ensure a smooth transition. These two officers are directed to relinquish their current posts on specific dates (May 1 and July 1, respectively).
Additionally, it is mandated that officers handling sensitive cases involving MPs/MLAs shall not vacate their positions until a successor assumes charge to maintain judicial continuity.
This sweeping administrative order reflects the High Court’s strategic efforts to streamline court functioning, enhance judicial efficiency, and ensure faster disposal of sensitive and time-bound cases. The emphasis on appointing experienced judicial minds to specialized courts highlights the judiciary’s responsiveness to societal needs.