New Delhi: In a key development in the Indian judiciary, Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna has officially recommended Justice Bhushan Ramkrishna Gavai as his successor. The recommendation has been forwarded to the Union Ministry of Law and Justice, in line with the seniority-based tradition followed in appointing the Chief Justice of India.
CJI Sanjiv Khanna Recommends Justice Gavai as 52nd CJI in Line with Seniority Rule
Justice Khanna, who took over as the 51st CJI on November 11, 2024, will retire on May 13, 2025. Justice Gavai is scheduled to take oath the next day, on May 14, in a ceremony expected to be held at Rashtrapati Bhavan.
A Landmark Appointment
Justice Gavai’s appointment will mark a historic milestone, as he will become only the second Chief Justice of India from a Dalit background, the first being Justice K.G. Balakrishnan. Born in Amravati, Maharashtra, on November 24, 1960, Justice Gavai belongs to a family inspired by the ideals of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. His father, R.S. Gavai, was a noted politician and served as a governor in multiple states.
Beginning his legal practice in 1985 at the Nagpur Bench of the Bombay High Court, Justice Gavai was appointed as a judge of the Bombay High Court in 2003. He was elevated to the Supreme Court in May 2019. Over the years, he has contributed to several notable judgments, including those related to the demonetization decision, electoral bonds, and constitutional issues concerning Jammu and Kashmir.
Justice Gavai’s term as Chief Justice will be relatively brief, concluding on November 23, 2025, upon reaching the age of retirement. If the established seniority norm continues, Justice Surya Kant is expected to succeed him as the 53rd CJI.
The final appointment will be confirmed once the President of India issues the official notification. Until then, all eyes remain on May 14, when Justice Gavai is expected to take over the country’s highest judicial office.
