Tejas Karia Appointed Delhi High Court Judge, Brings Arbitration Expertise
On February 12, 2025, the Central government officially announced the appointment of Tejas Dhirenbhai Karia as a Judge of the Delhi High Court.
Prior to his elevation, Karia was a Partner at Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas, where he led the firm’s Arbitration Practice.
His appointment was initially recommended by the High Court Collegium on October 25, 2023, followed by approval from the Supreme Court Collegium on August 29, 2024.
Supreme Court Collegium’s Recommendation
The Supreme Court Collegium, consisting of Chief Justice of India Dr. DY Chandrachud, Justice Sanjiv Khanna, and Justice BR Gavai, recognized Karia’s expertise in arbitration law and recommended his elevation.
The Collegium emphasized the increasing volume of arbitration cases in the Delhi High Court and the necessity for specialized handling.
“The volume of cases on arbitration law requires specialized handling, particularly, in the High Court of Delhi.
Shri Tejas Dhirenbhai Karia will prove to be a value addition to the Bench of the High Court of Delhi,” the Collegium observed.
The Supreme Court Collegium highlighted that Karia’s professional experience includes handling complex legal matters before multiple courts, including the Supreme Court.
His appointment aims to enhance the judiciary’s ability to manage arbitration-related disputes efficiently.
Extensive Legal Experience and Financial Standing
A key factor in Karia’s elevation was his substantial legal practice and financial standing.
The Collegium noted that his average net professional income over the past five years amounted to ₹709.69 lakhs, demonstrating his extensive client base and significant presence in the legal domain.
In addition to his domestic legal practice, Karia has represented clients in high-profile arbitration cases on international platforms, including the London Court of International Arbitration (LCIA), the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), and the Singapore International Arbitration Centre (SIAC).
His expertise in arbitration law is expected to bolster the Delhi High Court’s capability in handling arbitration disputes.
Strengthening Arbitration Law in India
Karia’s appointment aligns with broader government initiatives to institutionalize and promote arbitration in India.
His previous involvement in a high-powered committee formed by the Government of India underscores his commitment to advancing arbitration law within the country.
With increasing commercial and contractual disputes both domestically and internationally, the demand for arbitration specialists in the judiciary has grown.
The judiciary’s acknowledgment of this requirement played a crucial role in Karia’s elevation.
Future Contributions to the Delhi High Court
With his deep legal expertise and arbitration experience, Karia is expected to play a significant role in enhancing the judicial framework at the Delhi High Court.
His judicial presence is anticipated to contribute positively not only to arbitration cases but also to the overall efficiency of dispute resolution in the court.
Legal professionals and industry stakeholders stand to benefit from his appointment, as it promises a more nuanced and expert-driven approach to arbitration matters.
His tenure as a Judge of the Delhi High Court is expected to set new benchmarks for arbitration jurisprudence and further strengthen India’s position as a hub for alternative dispute resolution.
The appointment of Tejas Dhirenbhai Karia to the Delhi High Court marks an important step in addressing the growing complexities of arbitration law.
His expertise, combined with his extensive practice and professional standing, ensures that he will be a valuable addition to the judicial system.
As arbitration cases continue to rise, Karia’s role in the judiciary is expected to have a lasting impact on the legal landscape in India.
