Justice BR Gavai Set to Become the 52nd Chief Justice of India on May 14
In a significant development for the Indian judiciary, Justice Bhushan Ramkrishna Gavai is poised to take charge as the 52nd Chief Justice of India (CJI) on May 14, 2025, following the retirement of CJI Sanjiv Khanna. The Union Law Ministry received the official recommendation from Justice Khanna, adhering to the seniority convention.
Justice Gavai’s term as the head of the Supreme Court will span approximately six months, concluding with his retirement in November 2025.
CJI Sanjiv Khanna recommends to Union Law Ministry appointment of Justice B R Gavai as next CJI. pic.twitter.com/kRZvbI4mZO
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) April 16, 2025
A Historic Moment: Second Dalit CJI of India
Justice Gavai will be the second Dalit judge to hold the top judicial post in India, after Justice KG Balakrishnan, who served from 2007 to 2010. Hailing from Amravati, Maharashtra, Gavai’s ascent reflects both legal excellence and increased representation within India’s judicial system.
Justice BR Gavai: A Legal Luminary’s Journey
- Started Practice (1985): Began legal practice under senior barrister Raja Bhonsale.
- Public Prosecutor (1992–2000): Held roles as Assistant Government Pleader and Additional Public Prosecutor.
- Bombay High Court Judge (2003–2019): Served as a High Court judge for over 16 years.
- Supreme Court Elevation (2019): Became a Supreme Court judge in May 2019.
Throughout his judicial career, Justice Gavai has been known for his deep expertise in constitutional and administrative law.
Landmark Judgments by Justice BR Gavai
Justice Gavai has contributed to several high-profile and constitutionally significant decisions, including:
✅ Demonetisation Judgment (2023):
Upheld the Central Government’s 2016 demonetisation policy as constitutionally valid.
✅ Article 370 Verdict (2023):
Part of the five-judge Constitution Bench that ruled in favor of the abrogation of Article 370, effectively removing Jammu and Kashmir’s special status.
✅ Prashant Bhushan Contempt Case:
Involved in the much-discussed contempt proceedings against senior advocate Prashant Bhushan, addressing free speech and judicial transparency.
What Justice Gavai’s Appointment Means for India
Justice Gavai’s elevation comes at a crucial time, as India continues to navigate complex legal and constitutional issues. His legal insights, inclusive representation, and landmark rulings position him as a pivotal figure in India’s democratic and judicial evolution.
As the judiciary increasingly engages with technological, political, and social challenges, Justice Gavai’s leadership is expected to bring balanced, progressive, and constitutionally sound perspectives to the bench.