In September 2024, the Supreme Court Collegium recommended both advocates for elevation, acting on a proposal initiated by the Chief Justice of the Bombay High Court.
That proposal—formulated in April of the same year after extensive discussions with the court’s 2 senior-most judges—underwent thorough scrutiny by consultee judges and the Department of Justice before final approval.
Profile: Advocate Gautam Ashwin Ankhad
Unanimous Support
“SC Collegium noted that Gautam Ashwin Ankhad received unanimous support from all consultee judges, who endorsed his suitability for judicial elevation.”
Professional Credentials
Over the past five years, Ankhad has maintained an average net professional income of ₹2.26 crore, reflecting a flourishing legal practice. He has appeared in 56 reported cases, specializing in commercial law, contract disputes, and arbitration.
Integrity & Competence
Department of Justice reports highlight Ankhad’s impeccable personal integrity and strong professional reputation, with no adverse findings recorded against him. The Collegium found him “fully equipped and competent” to discharge the duties of a High Court Judge.
Profile: Advocate Mahendra Madhavrao Nerlikar
Favourable Evaluations
“SC collegium further noted that Mahendra Madhavrao Nerlikar also received favourable opinions from three of the four consultee judges.”
Veteran Public Servant
With more than two decades of experience encompassing civil, criminal, constitutional, labour, and service law, Nerlikar has built a distinguished record. From 2013 to 2023, he served the Government of Maharashtra as Assistant Government Pleader and Additional Public Prosecutor at the Aurangabad Bench, a role he resumed in November 2023.
Ethics & Image
The Department of Justice affirmed Nerlikar’s ethical standing and positive public image. As a member of the Scheduled Caste, his appointment underscores the judiciary’s commitment to diversity and social inclusion.
Judicial Readiness
“The Collegium confirmed his fitness and appropriateness for the judicial role.”
Significance Of The Appointments
These successive elevations mark a strategic effort to bolster the Bombay High Court’s bench with lawyers who combine deep expertise, ethical rigor, and public-service experience. By selecting candidates who enjoy broad-based support and possess robust case records, the Supreme Court Collegium has reinforced confidence in the court’s capacity to deliver timely and impartial justice.
Over the next two years, Judges Ankhad and Nerlikar will contribute to a variety of high-stakes matters—from commercial arbitrations and contract litigations to constitutional challenges and criminal appeals—helping to uphold the rule of law in one of India’s busiest judicial jurisdictions.
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