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Historical Evolution of Judiciary in HP

The judicial administration evolved in three distinct phases:

1. Judicial Commissioner’s Court (1948–1967)

  • Established: 15th August 1948 (under HP Courts Order, 1948).
  • Location: “Harvington” (Kelston area, Shimla).
  • First Head: Mr. N.C. Mehta (Chief Commissioner).
  • Function: Vested with High Court powers under the Judicial Commissioner’s Court Act, 1950.

2. Himachal Bench of Delhi High Court (1967–1971)

  • Transition: Following the Delhi High Court Act, 1966, jurisdiction was extended to HP on 1st May 1967.
  • Location: Shifted to “Ravenswood” (Old HC Building).
  • Structure: Replaced the Judicial Commissioner’s Court with a Circuit Bench of the Delhi High Court.
  • First Circuit Bench Judges: Justice S.K. Kapoor and Justice Hardayal Hardy.

3. High Court of Himachal Pradesh (1971–Present)

  • Established: 25th January 1971 (following State of HP Act, 1970).4
  • First Composition (1+2):
    • Chief Justice: Justice M.H. Beg.5
    • Judges: Justice D.B. Lal and Justice C.R. Thakur.6

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