Justice Gavai becomes India’s 52nd CJI, SC raises productivity concerns, and India expels Pakistani diplomat in a high-stakes week for law and diplomacy.
DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS (14 MAY 2025)
JUSTICE BR GAVAI TAKES OATH AS INDIA’S 52ND CHIEF JUSTICE
FACT: Appointment of Justice BR Gavai as the Chief Justice of India
Justice Bhushan Ramkrishna Gavai took oath as the 52nd Chief Justice of India, making history as the first Buddhist and only the second Scheduled Caste judge to hold this post. Known for landmark rulings on Article 370, electoral bonds, and demonetisation, he will serve until November 23, 2025.
LEGAL PROVISIONS
- Article 124 – Appointment of Judges to the Supreme Court
- Constitutional Convention – Senior-most judge elevated as CJI
- Significant Judgments:
- In re Article 370 Abrogation Case
- Association for Democratic Reforms v. Union of India (Electoral Bonds)
- Vineet Narain principles on judicial independence and diversity
Source: Supreme Court of India
SUPREME COURT FLAGS PRODUCTIVITY ISSUE IN TEA, COFFEE BREAKS FOR JUDGES
Issue: SC Advisory on Judicial Productivity and Break Practices
The Supreme Court observed that frequent tea or coffee breaks during court hours reduce judicial productivity. It advised that judges should work continuously till lunch for optimal performance. The remarks were made during administrative discussions on court functioning and internal efficiency.
LEGAL PROVISIONS
- Article 145 – Rules of Court procedure
- Inherent Powers of the Judiciary – Administrative control over court functioning
- Relevant Precedents:
- All India Judges’ Association v. Union of India – Judicial working conditions
- State of Uttar Pradesh v. Rajesh Gautam – Efficiency in justice delivery
Source: Supreme Court of India
INDIA EXPELS PAKISTANI DIPLOMAT OVER ESPIONAGE LINK
Issue: Expulsion of Pakistani Diplomat over Alleged Espionage
India expelled a Pakistani High Commission official for activities “not in consonance with diplomatic norms.” The move followed arrests in Punjab linked to espionage. Pakistan retaliated by expelling an Indian diplomat. The tit-for-tat expulsions reflect heightened bilateral tensions amid Operation Sindoor fallout.
LEGAL PROVISIONS
- Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, 1961 –
- Article 9: Declaration of persona non grata
- Official Secrets Act, 1923 – Governs espionage-related offences
- Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 – For anti-national activities
- CrPC Sections 41 & 437 – Arrest and bail of suspects
Source: Supreme Court of India
Also Read: DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS (12 MAY 2025)
