He was the 21st Chief Justice of India, serving from September 25, 1990 to November 24, 1991. He was also the first chairman of the National Human Rights Commission of India
Ranganath Misra was famous for National Commission for Religious and Linguistic Minorities, also called as Ranganath Misra Commission. It  was constituted by Government of India to look into various issues related to Linguistic and Religious minorities in India. The commission submitted the report to the Government on 21 May 2007.

The commission recommended that minorities should get 15% of jobs in government services and seats in educational institutions;  8.4% quota out of existing OBC quota of 27% for minorities and SC reservation to Dalit converts

Vice President Mohammad Hamid Ansari has deeply condoled the sad demise of former Chief Justice of India (CJI) Ranganath Misra. He was 85. Justice Misra died at a private hospital in Bhubaneshwar on Thursday following prolonged illness.

In his message, Ansari has said that Justice Misra was a distinguished jurist and parliamentarian who rendered yeoman service in furthering the cause of justice and human rights.
“I am deeply grieved to learn the sad demise of Justice (Retd.) Ranganath Misra, former Chief Justice of India, former Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha and the first Chairman of the National Human Rights Commission,” he said.

“My wife joins me in conveying our heartfelt condolences to the members of the brereaved family and pray to the Almighy to give peace to the departed soul,” he added.

The Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh has also condoled the passing away of former Chief Justice of India and Member of Parliament Ranganath Mishra. 

In his condolence message Dr Singh said that Justice Mishra was an eminent jurist and able parliamentarian who distinguished himself in the high public offices he held.