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Justice BR Gavai Appointed 52nd Chief Justice of India, Oath on May 14

April 29, 2025, 9:27 pm

Justice Bhushan Ramkrishna Gavai has been named as the 52nd Chief Justice of India (CJI). He will be sworn in as the new CJI on May 14, 2025, by President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Justice Gavai will replace the outgoing CJI, Justice Sanjiv Khanna, who will retire on May 13.

A Distinguished Legal Career of Gavai

Born on November 24, 1960, at Amravati, Maharashtra, Justice Gavai started his legal practice in 1985. He started practicing under the tutelage of Raja S. Bhonsale, ex Advocate General and High Court Judge, and later set up his independent practice at the Bombay High Court in 1987. He was made an additional judge of the Bombay High Court in 2003 and was made a permanent judge in 2005. He was promoted to the Supreme Court in May 2019.

During his career, Justice Gavai has had a hand in some of the key Constitution Bench judgments. He was among the five-judge bench that allowed the abrogation of Article 370 that took away Jammu and Kashmir’s special status. Gavai also was on the bench that decided to strike down the controversial scheme of electoral bonds for political party funding. He was also on the bench that upheld the Centre’s 2016 demonetisation action by a 4:1 margin.

Historic Representation and Brief Tenure

Justice Gavai’s elevation is also notable for its social significance he will become the second Chief Justice of India from the Scheduled Caste community, following Justice K.G. Balakrishnan. His appointment marks an important milestone in the judiciary’s representation and inclusivity.

His term, nonetheless, will be comparatively brief. Justice Gavai will retire on November 23, 2025, when he reaches the age of 65, the retirement age for a Supreme Court judge.

The name of Justice Gavai was suggested by Justice Sanjiv Khanna in accordance with the convention of choosing the Chief Justice of India according to seniority. His elevation adds years of judicial experience and a legacy of historic judgments to India’s highest judicial office.

Who is Justice BR Gavai? New Chief Justice of India Taking Oath on May 14

April 16, 2025, 6:15 pm

Justice BR Gavai will be the 52nd Chief Justice of India from May 14, succeeding the outgoing CJI Sanjiv Khanna. His elevation is a milestone moment in the judiciary of the nation, as he becomes only the second Dalit to occupy the position after Justice KG Balakrishnan.

From Maharashtra’s Amravati, Justice Bhushan Ramkrishna Gavai comes with a distinguished track record of more than three decades—spanning from being a government pleader and public prosecutor to a Supreme Court judge engaged in pathbreaking judgments like the 2016 demonetisation case and the electoral bonds matter.

Chief Justice of India #SanjivKhanna has formally proposed Justice #BRGavai as his successor. The recommendation has been sent to the law ministry as part of the appointment process. Justice Gavai is presently the senior-most judge of the #SupremeCourt after CJI Khanna. pic.twitter.com/QC257rXPZ3

— The Statesman (@TheStatesmanLtd) April 16, 2025

Although his term will extend for merely around six months, his ascension is part of a larger movement towards diversity and representation in India’s highest court.

A Six-Month Tenure, But a Big Symbol

Justice BR Gavai’s tenure as CJI will be brief. He is set to retire in November 2025, giving him around six months in the position. However, his appointment carries deep symbolic weight. It highlights India’s slow but visible move toward greater caste representation in the higher judiciary.

From Amravati to the Apex Court

Born in Amravati, Maharashtra, Justice BR Gavai began practicing law in 1985. Initially, he practiced law with Raja S Bhonsale, who was a retired Advocate General and High Court judge. In 1987, he had established independent practice at the Bombay High Court in the field of constitutional and administrative law.

He appeared on behalf of various public entities, including Nagpur and Amravati municipal corporations and Amravati University. He represented state governments like DCVL and SICOM as well.

Government roles and judicial ascent

In 1994, Justice Gavai was appointed as Assistant Government Pleader and Additional Public Prosecutor at the Nagpur Bench of the Bombay High Court. In 2002, he became Government Pleader and Public Prosecutor for the same bench.

One year later, in 2003, he was designated as an Additional Judge of the Bombay High Court. He became a permanent judge in 2005 and then served at Mumbai, Nagpur, Aurangabad, and Panaji benches.

Judgments as Supreme Court Judge

Justice Gavai joined the Supreme Court on May 24, 2019. Since joining, he has pronounced or assisted in a series of landmark verdicts. Most notably, he was part of the bench that validated the Modi government’s 2016 demonetisation move. He also helped invalidate the controversial electoral bonds scheme, a giant step towards political donation transparency.

With the appointment of Justice Gavai, India makes a symbolic step on diversity and inclusion in the judiciary. While his term as Chief Justice will be short, the influence of his judicial work and legacy will resound.

Retirement Benefits Of Chief Justice Of India: What Will DY Chandrachud Receive As He Retires?

November 12, 2024, 10:01 am

On November 11, 2024, Justice Sanjiv Khanna took the oath as the 51st Chief Justice of India (CJI), succeeding Justice DY Chandrachud, whose term concluded on November 10. The new CJI’s swearing-in marks the beginning of his tenure, which is set to last until May 2025. This transition marks an important shift in the leadership of the country’s judiciary.

Justice DY Chandrachud’s Farewell

Justice DY Chandrachud, in his final address before stepping down, expressed a sense of fulfillment as his tenure as CJI came to an end. He remarked, “I won’t be able to deliver justice from tomorrow, but I am content,” as he bid farewell to the role. Chandrachud also took the opportunity to seek forgiveness for any unintended wrongdoings during his time in office, showcasing a humble end to his impactful career.

Post-Retirement Benefits for CJIs

As part of the revisions to retirement benefits for former Chief Justices of India, a retired CJI is entitled to a series of perks aimed at ensuring their well-being and security after retirement. These include:

24/7 Security: A retired CJI is entitled to round-the-clock security at their residence, along with a personal security guard for five years from the date of retirement.
Accommodation and Benefits: Former CJIs are granted six months of rent-free accommodation in Delhi, usually in Type-VII accommodation, which is also available to former Union ministers and MPs.
Continued Services: A retired CJI will continue to receive domestic help and a chauffeur for life. This service is part of the expanded post-retirement benefits available to them.
Airport Lounges and Other Privileges: Retired CJIs and Supreme Court judges are eligible for ceremonial lounges at airports, enhancing their comfort during travel.
Telephone and Communication Benefits: Former CJIs are entitled to a free residential telephone line, as well as reimbursement for communication services such as mobile phone, broadband, and mobile data up to ₹4,200 per month (plus taxes).

Who is Justice Sanjiv Khanna?

Justice Sanjiv Khanna, who has now assumed office as the 51st Chief Justice of India, has had an illustrious career in the Indian judiciary. Before becoming CJI, he was part of many landmark bench decisions, including the one that upheld the abrogation of Article 370.

Born on May 14, 1960, Justice Khanna began his legal career in 1983 after joining the Delhi Bar Council. Known for his meticulous legal approach, he has earned a reputation for his contributions to the legal landscape of India. As CJI, Justice Khanna will serve a tenure of six months, with his retirement expected in May 2025.

The appointment of Justice Sanjiv Khanna as CJI ushers in a new chapter for the Indian judiciary, following the notable tenure of Justice DY Chandrachud. As the 51st CJI, Justice Khanna’s leadership will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the country’s legal system. Meanwhile, the post-retirement benefits for CJIs continue to highlight the importance placed on the welfare of judicial officers who have served at the highest level.

Justice Sanjiv Khanna Appointed as 51st Chief Justice of India

November 8, 2024, 5:00 pm

Justice Sanjiv Khanna, a distinguished Supreme Court judge, has been recommended by Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud as his successor. He is set to assume office as the 51st Chief Justice of India on November 10, 2024, serving a tenure of six months until May 13, 2025, just a day before his 65th birthday.

Justice Khanna has been part of several significant judgments during his tenure at the Supreme Court. He was a member of the Constitution Bench involved in high-profile cases, including the controversial Electoral Bond Scheme, the revocation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir, and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s bail case.

Background and Education

Born on May 14, 1960, to a family of legal luminaries, Justice Sanjiv Khanna is the son of Delhi High Court judge Justice Devraj Khanna and the nephew of former Supreme Court judge Hansraj Khanna. He completed his schooling at Modern School, Barakhamba Road, in Delhi and later pursued his law degree at Delhi University’s Campus Law Center.

Justice Hansraj Khanna, a figure of great repute, delivered the dissenting judgment in the landmark “Habeas Corpus case” (Additional District Magistrate, Jabalpur vs Shivkant Shukla) in 1976, which became a defining moment in Indian constitutional history.

Before he was appointed a Supreme Court judge, Justice Khanna served as a judge at the Delhi High Court, where he was known for his expertise in various fields, including constitutional law, commercial law, and environmental law. His legal career began in 1983 when he enrolled as an advocate with the Delhi Bar Council, later practicing in the District Court and Delhi High Court.

In 2004, he was appointed as Standing Counsel for the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi. In 2005, he became an Additional Judge at the Delhi High Court and was made a permanent judge the following year.

Supreme Court Tenure and Leadership Roles

Justice Khanna was elevated to the Supreme Court on January 18, 2019. His first day at the apex court was marked by a symbolic moment when he began his work in the same courtroom from where his uncle, Justice Hansraj Khanna, had retired.

During his time at the Supreme Court, he has held prominent positions, including Chairman of the Supreme Court Legal Services Committee and Executive Chairman of the National Legal Services Authority. He is also a member of the Governing Council of the National Judicial Academy, Bhopal.

Justice Sanjiv Khanna’s elevation to the position of Chief Justice of India marks a significant moment in his illustrious legal career. As per seniority rules, he will serve as the CJI for six months, overseeing the top judicial matters of the country until his retirement.

CJI Chandrachud ‘If I’ve Hurt Anyone..’ Bids Emotional Farewell: Bows Out With Grace

November 8, 2024, 3:48 pm

In an emotional and heartfelt farewell, Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud retired from his esteemed judicial position on Friday, bringing an end to his remarkable tenure at the Supreme Court. During his final appearance in the court, Justice Chandrachud, known for his steady leadership and progressive judgments, took a moment to reflect on his journey. As the ceremonial proceedings unfolded, he expressed gratitude to all those who had supported him throughout his career and sought forgiveness from anyone he may have unintentionally hurt.

HAVE A LOOK AT THE POST:

Chief Justice of India Dhananjaya Y Chandrachud rises after completing his last board of cases in the #SupremeCourtofIndia pic.twitter.com/KRdqVigoz4

— Bar and Bench (@barandbench) November 8, 2024

A Personal Touch: ‘Pilgrims’ in the Court of Justice

The outgoing CJI reminisced about his early days in the judiciary, sharing that when he was young, he would visit the Supreme Court and gaze at the portraits of former justices. “We are here as pilgrims, birds for a short passage of time,” he remarked, emphasizing the transient nature of one’s time in such a prestigious institution. He also reflected on how, at one point, he had wondered about the empty courtroom at 2 PM, not foreseeing his eventual role in it. Justice Chandrachud’s humble words resonated with all present in the courtroom, underlining the collective responsibility of upholding justice.

Commitment to Justice Until the End

Despite the emotional weight of his final day, CJI Chandrachud remained fully committed to his judicial duties, as he had always been. Before the ceremonial bench was convened, he made it clear that he wanted to hear as many matters as possible, a testament to his dedication to justice. “I wouldn’t want to miss the opportunity to do justice till the last time possible,” he said, reinforcing his deep sense of duty to the court and its role in society.

A Thankful Goodbye and Apologies

In his closing words, Justice Chandrachud apologized to anyone he may have hurt during his tenure and thanked the lawyers present for their participation in the farewell. His remarks were met with a resounding acknowledgment from the legal community, including prominent figures like Abhishek Manu Singhvi and Kapil Sibal, who celebrated his legacy and praised his leadership. “It is this court that keeps me going,” he shared, before bidding farewell, leaving behind a lasting impact on the Indian judiciary.

End of an Era: A Dignified Transition

As the Chief Justice prepares to pass the torch to his successor, Justice Chandrachud’s farewell marks the end of an era in the Supreme Court. His legacy, characterized by a deep commitment to justice and fairness, will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of legal professionals.

Chief Justice Takes Significant Step In Marital Rape Case Amid Lawyer’s Legacy Comments

October 23, 2024, 7:47 pm

The bench led by Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud has decided to halt the hearings on petitions challenging the immunity granted to husbands in marital rape cases. This decision comes as the Chief Justice is set to retire on November 10, and the current bench, which includes Justice JB Pardiwala and Justice Manoj Misra, will not be able to complete the hearings and issue a verdict in time.

The Chief Justice’s bench has adjourned the matter for four weeks, after which a new bench will take over.

During today’s hearing, attorneys representing various parties indicated that they would need time to present their arguments. Senior Advocate Sankarnarayanan mentioned he would require at least one day to complete his submissions. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta and Senior Advocate Rakesh Dwivedi also noted they would need a day each. Other lawyers involved in the case include Maninder Singh, Arvind Datar, and Indira Jaising.

“Then this can be deferred,” stated the Chief Justice. He acknowledged that submissions had been made by Ms. Nundy and noted that Mr. Gopal Sankarnarayanan would need a day, followed by submissions from Senior Advocate Jaising and other counsel. He concluded that it would not be feasible to complete the hearings anytime soon, thus ordering the matter to be relisted.

Senior Advocate Karuna Nundy, representing one of the petitioners, remarked, “Your (Chief Justice) legacy would warrant this case to be heard for the millions of women.” In response, the Solicitor General commented, “Your lordship’s legacy will be remembered and this statement need not be made.” The Chief Justice pointed out that all parties must present their arguments and directed the matter to be scheduled for four weeks later. The hearings began on October 17.

The newly enacted Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita grants husbands immunity from prosecution for rape if their wives are not minors. The new law states in exception 2 to Section 63 (rape) that “sexual intercourse or sexual acts by a man with his own wife, the wife not being under eighteen years of age, is not rape.”

The Centre has informed the court that it sees no necessity to criminalize marital rape, asserting that this matter lies outside the court’s jurisdiction. The government argues that the issue of marital rape is more social than legal, with potential direct societal implications.

The Parliament, the Centre contends, has introduced various measures to safeguard the consent of married women. The sexual aspect is described as one of several components of the relationship between husband and wife that underpins their marriage. If the legislature believes that protecting the institution of marriage is essential, the Centre argues that it would be inappropriate for the court to invalidate the exception.

to husbands in marital rape cases. This decision comes as the Chief Justice is set to retire on November 10, and the current bench, which includes Justice JB Pardiwala and Justice Manoj Misra, will not be able to complete the hearings and issue a verdict in time.

The Chief Justice’s bench has adjourned the matter for four weeks, after which a new bench will take over.

‘Send Rs 500 for Cab’: SC Acts Against Fraudulent CJI Impersonator

August 28, 2024, 3:22 pm

On Tuesday, the Delhi Police’s cyber unit received a complaint about a social media account impersonating Chief Justice of India (CJI) D Y Chandrachud. The complaint followed the viral spread of a deceptive post on X (formerly Twitter) in which the impersonator claimed to be the CJI in urgent need of money.

Impersonation Scandal on Social Media

The viral post showed a message purportedly from CJI Chandrachud asking for Rs 500. The message read, “Hello, I am CJI and we have urgent meeting of the collegium and I am stuck at Connaught Place. Can you send me Rs 500 for cab?” The fraudster assured the user that the money would be returned, stating, “I will return the money once I reach the court.”

To add credibility to the scam, the message ended with “sent from iPad,” attempting to mimic the style of a genuine communication.

The Supreme Court authorities acted swiftly after CJI Chandrachud became aware of the post. They filed an FIR with the Delhi Police’s cyber branch, initiating an investigation into the fraudulent activity.

Rising Financial Fraud Cases

The incident comes amid a significant rise in financial fraud cases in India. According to the Reserve Bank of India’s yearly report, released on May 30, the number of financial fraud cases reported by banks surged by 166 percent in the financial year 2023-24, totaling 36,075 cases. This sharp increase underscores the growing challenges of combating financial fraud and cybercrime.

CJI DY Chandrachud Goes Vegan, Launches Neurodiverse Café And New Court Portal

August 6, 2024, 12:26 pm

Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud has turned vegan, inspired by his daughter’s push for a cruelty-free lifestyle. He announced this during the opening of a new canteen at the Delhi High Court, which is run by people with neurodiverse conditions.

Chandrachud shared that his two daughters, who are specially-abled, have a significant impact on him. Their advocacy for a cruelty-free life led him to adopt a vegan diet. He also mentioned that neither he nor his wife buys silk or leather products anymore.

#WATCH CJI D.Y. Chandrachud speaks on the value of Lok Adalats at the Special Lok Adalat held as part of it’s 75 year celebrations.
Find the complete story on https://t.co/ymeCiFc3hx.#PBSHABD pic.twitter.com/HRUBSz05op

— PB-SHABD (@PBSHABD) August 3, 2024

In his speech, Chandrachud talked about his experiences with differently-abled individuals and praised initiatives like the new cafe, Sagar Express, which provides job opportunities for people with neurodiversity, such as autism. He said that this kind of initiative has become a movement and plans to recommend similar cafes be set up in High Courts across India, and possibly in district courts as well.

Chandrachud also launched the e-DHCR (Electronic Daily Hearing Case Register) Portal for the Delhi High Court.

Chief Justice Of India Chandrachud Orders Hathras Stampede Case To Be Listed For Judicial Hearing

July 9, 2024, 4:52 pm

Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud mentioned orally on July 9 in the Supreme Court that the Hathras stampede deaths case has been scheduled for judicial hearing.

“I had yesterday ordered the Hathras matter to be listed,” Chandrachud stated.

On July 3, a writ petition was submitted to the Supreme Court requesting the appointment of a five-member expert committee, overseen by a retired Supreme Court judge, to investigate the Hathras stampede, which resulted in over 121 deaths.

“Several questions brew up from this horrific incident of stampede thereby questioning the duty and lapse of State Government and Municipal Corporations. Apart from the failure of maintaining and administering the supervision, the authorities have also failed in controlling the crowd gathered for the event,” the petition stated.

The petition has urged the court to instruct the Uttar Pradesh government to provide a status report and take legal action against those who were negligent regarding safety and crowd control measures.

Several flaws were discovered in the way the entire religious celebration in Hathras was planned, resulting in the terrible stampede that killed 121 people and injured several others. From no entry-exit points to a lack of emergency routes, Uttar Pradesh Police sources have identified serious blunders that contributed to the disaster, even as VVIP arrangements were made for religious preacher ‘Bhole Baba’.

CJI Chandrachud Emphasizes Tech-Driven Justice; Strategies to Make Courtrooms More Accessible!

November 27, 2023, 3:31 pm

Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud highlighted the Supreme Court’s innovative use of technology, emphasizing how online streaming has bridged the gap between the courts and the people, transforming legal accessibility.

Speaking at the inaugural regional conference on legal aid access, themed ‘Access to Legal Aid: Strengthening Access to Justice in the Global South,’ CJI Chandrachud underscored the significance of nations characterized by limited economic development as part of the Global South.

CJI Chandrachud emphasized the importance of technological interventions in improving access to justice, citing India’s role in establishing the Supreme Court of Mauritius and recent collaborations with Singapore’s Supreme Court via a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

“We employ technology to bring courtrooms closer to the public,” stated CJI Chandrachud. “The Supreme Court’s online proceedings now resonate within the hearts and homes of ordinary citizens,” he affirmed, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity within court spaces.

CJI Chandrachud concluded by recognizing the judiciary’s potential to significantly enhance access to justice and praising countries like India for their innovative legal frameworks, underscoring their crucial role in advancing legal equity.

Pawan Khera case: SC clubs FIRs, transfers matter to Hazratganj police station

March 20, 2023, 6:52 pm

On Monday, the Apex Court clubbed the FIRs against Pawan Khera and directed that those FIRs registered in Varanasi and Assam shall be transferred to Hazratganj police station, Lucknow.

In addition, Supreme Court also extended the interim protection from arrest till 10 April. According to a bench led by Chief Justice of India, DY Chandrachud, FIRs registered in Varanasi and Assam will be transferred to Hazratganj police station in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh.

Furthermore, the court also stated that Pawan Khera is free to apply for regular bail in a jurisdictional court. Meanwhile, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta informed the court that after apologising in court earlier, Khera stated in his rejoinder that it was made in a fair speech.

In a statement Mehta said that Pawan is yet to apologize for his remarks as he claimed that it is his only counsel who has apologized. However, the court noted that Khera is granted interim protection because he apologized.

SG Mehta told the court that the statement was false and that the investigation is looking into who made it. He also questioned how someone could stoop to the level of bringing someone’s parents.

Previously, the Assam and Uttar Pradesh police had filed an affidavit opposing Pawan Khera’s request for the clubbing of FIRs.

Supreme Court to consider a three-judge panel to address the Karnataka Hijab ban row

January 23, 2023, 1:25 pm

The Supreme Court of India has been approached by a group of girls from Karnataka on Monday requesting a directive to allow them to sit for examinations wearing hijab.

A bench consisting of Chief Justice DY Chandarchud, Justices V Ramasubramanian and JB Pardiwala, took note of senior attorney Meenakshi Arora’s arguments that an interim injunction was required in light of the practical exams that were due to begin for several schools in the state on February 6.

“This is the headscarf matter. The girls have practical examinations from February 6, 2023 and this matter needs to be listed for interim directions so that they can appear. The practical examinations will be held in government schools,” the senior lawyer said, appearing for some students.

“I will examine it. This is a three-judge bench matter. We will allot a date,” the CJI said.

A two-judge panel of the Supreme Court issued conflicting rulings in the hijab dispute and ordered the Chief Justice to appoint the proper panel to hear the matter on October 13, 2017, which was brought about by the state of Karnataka’s prohibition on the wearing of Islamic head coverings in schools.

There would be no restrictions on the wearing of the hijab anywhere in the state’s schools and colleges, according to Justice Sudhanshu Dhulia, who replaced Justice Hemant Gupta, who had dismissed petitions against the Karnataka High Court’s March 15 decision refusing to overturn the prohibition.

The Karnataka government responded to the petitioners by arguing throughout the proceedings that its circular enforcing uniform was religion-neutral and solely intended to promote uniformity and discipline in the state’s educational institutions.

Supreme Court wraps up 6,844 cases since 9 November

December 20, 2022, 10:15 am

Since Dhananjaya Y Chandrachud took over as the new Chief Justice of India (CJI) the supreme court has wrapped up 6,844 cases.

Meanwhile, between 9 November and 16 December as many as 5,898 cases were filed on the last working day before the Supreme Court closed for winter vacation.

According to data released by the Supreme Court administration, over 29 working days, 6,844 cases were disposed of which 2,511 cases were bail and transfer petitions, involving matters of personal liberty and family disputes.

Under the leadership of the new CJI on average, the top court decided 236 cases every day of which 90 cases were bail and transfer petitions.

Earlier on 17 November CJI emphasized on quick disposal of bail and transfer petitions and said, “After 10 transfer petitions, all the benches shall hear 10 bail matters every day… those are the matters of personal liberty and we will prioritize them. All the courts will start their regular boards after hearing these 20 cases.”

Moreover, for taking up small cases a statement was made after which a top court bench led by the CJI said no case is small for the highest court.

The CJI-led bench said on 16 December, It is in the seemingly small and routine matters involving grievances of citizens that issues of the moment, both in jurisprudential and constitutional terms, emerge…The right to personal liberty is a precious and inalienable right recognized by the Constitution. In attending to such grievances, the Supreme Court performs a plain constitutional duty, obligation, and function; no more and no less.”

Earlier on Wednesday Union law minister Kiren Rijiju in Parliament remarked, “If the Supreme Court starts hearing bail applications or frivolous PILs (public interest litigations), it will cause lots of extra burdens… More than 4 crores (40 million) of cases are pending in trial courts where the government has a stake. We give money, and support to create better infrastructure. But we have to ask the judiciary to ensure that only deserving people are given justice.”

Responding to Union Minister Rijiju’s remarks CJI said, “If the Supreme Court were not to interfere in the matters of personal liberty, what are we here for? We are here to answer the call of conscience and the cry for the liberty of the citizens.”