B.R. Gavai Sworn in as 52nd Chief Justice of India

Justice Bhushan Ramakrishna Gavai was sworn in as the 52nd Chief Justice of India (CJI) on Wednesday, succeeding Justice Sanjiv Khanna who retired on May 13. The oath of office was administered by President Droupadi Murmu at a ceremonial function held at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Justice Gavai will serve as the Chief Justice till November 23, 2025.

Born on November 24, 1960, in Amravati, Maharashtra, Justice Gavai began his judicial career when he was appointed as an additional judge of the Bombay High Court on November 14, 2003. He was confirmed as a permanent judge on November 12, 2005. On May 24, 2019, he was elevated to the Supreme Court of India, where he served on several Constitution benches and contributed to important rulings. With his appointment, he becomes the first practising Buddhist to assume the office of the Chief Justice of India. Additionally, he is the first judge from the Scheduled Caste category to become CJI in nearly a decade.

The Supreme Court collegium, while recommending his elevation to the apex court, clarified that his selection should not be interpreted as a reflection on the seniority or capability of other senior judges from the Bombay High Court, including two who were already serving as Chief Justices in other high courts. The collegium emphasized the need for diverse representation on the Supreme Court bench and viewed Justice Gavai’s appointment as a significant step in this direction.

In a candid conversation with journalists ahead of taking office, Justice Gavai reiterated his belief in the supremacy of the Indian Constitution. He stated that all three branches of the Indian democracy — the legislature, the executive, and the judiciary — must function within the framework laid down by the Constitution. He emphasized that the rule of law and constitutional principles should guide all institutions of the state.

The swearing-in ceremony was attended by several high-ranking dignitaries, reflecting the significance of the occasion. Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar were present at the event. Also in attendance were former Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna and several sitting judges of the Supreme Court, including Justices Surya Kant, Bela Trivedi, and P.S. Narasimha.

Justice Gavai’s rise to the top judicial position of the country is seen as a historic and inclusive move, given his background and professional journey. His tenure is expected to focus on upholding constitutional values, strengthening the judiciary’s independence, and ensuring justice for all sections of society. His leadership comes at a time when the Indian judiciary is tackling several critical issues, and expectations are high regarding reforms and timely justice delivery.