Arunachal’s Budi Habung sworn in as permanent judge of Gauhati High Court

Justice Budi Habung, on September 2, took oath as a permanent judge of the Gauhati High Court, becoming the first person from Arunachal Pradesh to hold the position. The ceremony was conducted at the high court premises in Guwahati, with Chief Justice Ashutosh Kumar administering the oath.

 

His elevation marks a significant moment for the judiciary in the Northeast, as the Gauhati High Court serves Assam, Nagaland, Mizoram, and Arunachal Pradesh. Senior judges, members of the bar, and court staff were present at the event.

 

Justice Habung’s journey has drawn wide attention. Before entering the judiciary, he worked as a teacher at Government School, Polo Colony, Naharlagun. Born in Hong village in Lower Subansiri district, he studied at Ziro, completed a Master’s degree in Political Science from Rajiv Gandhi University, and later earned his law degree from North-Eastern Hill University, Shillong.

 

He began his practice as an advocate in 2000 and, after the separation of the judiciary from the executive in Arunachal Pradesh, was appointed the state’s first District and Sessions Judge in 2010.

 

The Supreme Court Collegium, led by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, recommended his elevation last year, recognising his seniority and professional record. The Centre cleared the appointment after consultation with governors and chief ministers of the Northeast states under the Gauhati High Court’s jurisdiction.

 

Justice Habung’s rise from a village school in Arunachal to the high court bench is being seen as a source of pride for the state and inspiration for the region’s youth.