Justice BR Gavai Appointed 52nd Chief Justice of India

President Droupadi Murmu has appointed Justice Bhushan Ramkrishna Gavai as the next Chief Justice of India (CJI). The announcement was made on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, by Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal via a post on the social media platform X. Justice Gavai will take over as the 52nd Chief Justice of India on May 14, 2025, the day after current Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna retires on May 13.

Justice Gavai’s Appointment: Official Notification Issued

The Law Ministry has issued a formal notification confirming the appointment of Justice Gavai, who is the senior-most judge of the Supreme Court after Justice Khanna. His name was recommended by Justice Khanna on April 16, as per the established process. Justice Gavai will have a tenure of around six months, ending on December 23, 2025, when he turns 65, the retirement age for Supreme Court judges.

Profile: Who is Justice BR Gavai?

Justice Bhushan Ramkrishna Gavai began his legal career in Maharashtra and was elevated to the Bombay High Court before his appointment to the Supreme Court of India in 2019. He is known for his expertise in constitutional law, balanced judgments, and a calm judicial approach. Justice Gavai will become the second Dalit judge in India’s history to hold the post of Chief Justice, after Justice KG Balakrishnan.

Significance of His Appointment

Justice Gavai’s elevation is not only about seniority but also about inclusion and representation. His appointment sends a strong message about diversity at the highest level of the judiciary, while also ensuring leadership continuity based on merit.

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FAQs

1. When will Justice Gavai become Chief Justice of India?
He will assume office on May 14, 2025.

2. Who is he replacing?
He will succeed Justice Sanjiv Khanna, who retires on May 13.

3. How long will Justice Gavai serve as CJI?
He will serve for about six months, retiring on December 23, 2025.

4. Why is this appointment important?
Justice Gavai is the second Dalit to become CJI, marking a step toward greater representation in the Indian judiciary.