With neither trains nor flights functioning because of the nationwide lockdown, Justice Biswanath Somadder had to endure a 2,000-kilometre-long journey by car to take oath as the Meghalaya Chief Justice. Justice Somadder, previously posted at the Allahabad High Court, started from Uttar Pradesh's Prayagraj on April 24, along with his wife and driver. Justice Somadder and his driver took turns at the wheels and completed the journey on April 26. He was sworn in as the Meghalaya Chief Justice on April 27. Justice Somadder succeeds Chief Justice Muhammad Rafiq, who has been transferred as Chief Justice of Orissa High Court. Becoming an advocate on July 21, 1989, Justice Somadder practiced at Calcutta High Court as well as the Supreme Court. He was also Acting Chief Justice from January 1, 2019, till April 3, 2019.