The Supreme Court collegium headed by Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud on Wednesday recalled its recommendation to transfer Orissa High Court judge Justice S. Muralidhar as Chief Justice of Madras High Court, noting that its resolution has remained pending with the Centre since last September.

“Dr Justice Muralidhar now demits office on August 7, 2023, leaving less than 4 months’ time,” it said. In view of the delay, the “resolution is recalled” to allow the appointment of a permanent Chief Justice in Madras High Court, the collegium said, naming Justice S.V. Gangapurwala for the post.

Justice Muralidhar was transferred from Delhi High Court to Punjab and Haryana High Court in February 2020, soon after he directed police to lodge an FIR against BJP leaders who had made hate speeches before the Delhi riots.