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Jaya Badiga has become the first Telugu woman to be appointed as a judge in the United States. Her appointment to the Sacramento County Superior Court in California marks a significant milestone and has garnered widespread admiration.
Heartfelt Swearing-In Speech
Jaya Badiga’s swearing-in ceremony was particularly memorable due to her heartfelt speech delivered in Telugu. She began with, “Mee andariki naa hrudayapurvaka swagatham,” meaning “A heartfelt welcome to you all.” She concluded with the Sanskrit mantra, “Asato Ma Sadgamaya,” which translates to “Lead me from falsehood to truth.” Her speech beautifully highlighted her deep cultural roots and respect for her heritage, resonating strongly with many and earning her praise on social media for her humility and connection to her roots.
#Video | At her appointment to the Sacramento County Superior Court, Judge Jaya Badiga offers a Telugu welcome (Swagatam) and ends her speech with the Sanskrit prayer Asato Ma Sadgamaya.
Congratulations Judge Jaya Badiga! pic.twitter.com/pg9jZHsc8A
— Hindu American Foundation (@HinduAmerican) May 23, 2024
Who Is Jaya Badiga?
Born in Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, Jaya Badiga’s journey to becoming a judge is truly inspiring. Before her recent appointment, she served as a Commissioner at the Sacramento County Superior Court since 2022. She was appointed by California Governor Gavin Newsom, filling the vacancy left by the retirement of Judge Robert S. Lapham.
Badiga is a certified family law specialist with over a decade of experience, demonstrating her commitment to serving the community with dedication and expertise. She holds a Juris Doctor degree from the Santa Clara University School of Law and a Master of Arts degree in International Relations and International Communications from Boston University.
Career in Public Service
Jaya Badiga has had a notable career in public service. She served as an Attorney at the California Department of Health Care Services in 2020 and at the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services in 2018. A member of the Democratic Party, her professional journey underscores her dedication to justice and public service.
Celebrated by the Telugu Community
Badiga’s appointment has been widely celebrated, especially within the Telugu community. Her ability to blend her professional achievements with her cultural heritage has made her an inspiring figure for many.
In a separate but equally significant appointment, Governor Newsom appointed Raj Singh Badhesha as a Judge in the Fresno County Superior Court. Badhesha, the first Sikh judge in California who wears the dastar or pagri, has been warmly welcomed by the Central Valley Punjabi and Asian communities. He has served as Chief Assistant City Attorney in the Fresno City Attorney’s Office since 2022 and holds a Juris Doctor degree from the University of California College of Law in San Francisco.
Jaya Badiga’s appointment as the first Telugu woman judge in the US is a historic achievement that has been celebrated widely. Her heartfelt swearing-in speech and impressive career in public service make her an inspiring role model. Similarly, Raj Singh Badhesha’s appointment as the first Sikh judge in California highlights the increasing diversity and representation in the US judiciary.
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