The Supreme Court Collegium has proposed the elevation of two experienced judicial officers, Shri Sanjay Parihar and Shri Shahzad Azeem, to the position of Judges of the High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh.

A statement issued to this effect reads,

“The Supreme Court Collegium in its meeting held on 16th April, 2025 has approved the proposal for appointment of the following Judicial Officers, as Judges of the High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh: (i) (ii) Shri Sanjay Parihar, and Shri Shahzad Azeem”

Mr. Sanjay Parihar
Born on December 19, 1968, in Horna Palmar, Kishtwar, Shri Sanjay Parihar began his judicial career on December 1, 1997. Throughout his service, he has held several key positions, including that of Principal District and Sessions Judge in Jammu. He also served as the Special Judge for Anti-Corruption (CBI Cases) in Jammu, where he handled several high-profile matters, notably denying bail to an accused under the Official Secrets Act. His deep-rooted experience and unwavering dedication to justice have played a significant role in reinforcing the rule of law in the region.

Mr. Shahzad Azeem
Shri Shahzad Azeem joined the judicial service on August 5, 2011, and has consistently exhibited exceptional commitment to the judiciary. He has held key administrative positions, including Director of the J&K Judicial Academy and, most recently, Registrar General of the High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh. In these roles, Shri Azeem has been instrumental in driving judicial reforms and enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of court operations across the region.