Justice BR Gavai Takes Oath as 52nd Chief Justice of India
By: Arvind Jadhav
New Delhi: Justice BR Gavai has taken oath as the 52nd Chief Justice of India, succeeding CJI Sanjiv Khanna. The oath-taking ceremony was administered by President Droupadi Murmu, attended by prominent dignitaries including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, and Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar.
Significant Milestone
As the first Buddhist to head India’s judiciary and the second person from the Scheduled Caste community to hold the position, Justice Gavai’s appointment marks a significant milestone. He will serve as the Chief Justice for approximately six months, until his retirement on November 23, 2025.
Inspirational Journey
Justice Gavai’s journey to this position is an inspiration, shaped by his humble beginnings and the impact of affirmative action on his career. He has credited Dr. BR Ambedkar’s efforts for his success and emphasized the importance of the Constitution.
Landmark Judgments
Throughout his tenure as a judge, Justice Gavai has been part of several landmark judgments, including the verdict upholding the Centre’s 2016 demonetization decision and the ruling that declared the electoral bonds scheme unconstitutional. He has authored around 300 judgments, many of them Constitution Bench verdicts relating to fundamental rights.
Contribution to the Judiciary
As the Chief Justice, Justice Gavai is expected to contribute to the ongoing efforts to strengthen the Indian judiciary, highlighting the progress made in representation and diversity within the judiciary.
Shaping the Legal Landscape
His tenure is likely to be marked by significant decisions that will shape the country’s legal landscape, and his leadership will play a crucial role in guiding the judiciary towards greater efficiency and accessibility.
Justice BR Gavai’s Tribute to Dr. BR Ambedkar
During a recent speech, Justice BR Gavai ended with a chant of “Jai Bhim,” receiving a standing ovation from the crowd. This gesture highlights his deep respect for Dr. BR Ambedkar, whose efforts he credits for his success. Justice Gavai has often emphasized the significance of affirmative action in his journey, acknowledging the impact of Dr. Ambedkar’s work on his own career. This tribute reflects Justice Gavai’s appreciation for the architect of the Indian Constitution and his commitment to upholding the principles of equality and justice.
