Justice BR Gavai takes oath as the 52nd Chief Justice of India at Rashtrapati Bhavan, making history as the first Buddhist CJI.
Why in News
Justice BR Gavai takes oath as India’s 52nd Chief Justice of India at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Swearing in of Justice BR Gavai as the 52nd Chief Justice of India .
Overview
In a historic ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan Justice BR Gavai was sworn in as the 52nd Chief Justice of India on 14th May 2025 . President Droupadi Murmu administered the oath by making this a landmark moment for the Indian judiciary . CJI BR Gavai becomes the 1st Buddhist and the 2nd Dalit to hold the highest judicial office in the country . He will serve as CJI until 23rd November 2025 succeeding Justice Sanjiv Khanna who retired a day earlier .
Born on 24th November 1960 in Amravati, Maharashtra Justice BR Gavai hails from a family grounded in Ambedkarite values . His father R.S. Gavai was a prominent leader and former Governor of multiple states .
Key Aspects
This appointment holds constitutional and social importance marking progress toward representation and inclusivity in the Supreme Court of India .
- Justice BR Gavai becomes the 52nd Chief Justice of India .
- 1st Buddhist and second Dalit to lead the apex court .
- Comes from a family influenced by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s ideology .
- Sworn in by President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan .
- Succeeds CJI Sanjiv Khanna, retired on 13th May 2025 .
Legal Insights
The process of appointing the CJI is guided by constitutional provisions and established conventions .
- Article 124(2) of the Indian Constitution of India governs the appointment of Judges .
- Senior-most judge of the Supreme Court of India traditionally appointed as CJI .
- Upholds judicial independence and continuity in the Indian legal system .
Conclusion
No verdict involved as this pertains to a constitutional appointment rather than a judicial decision
Source- Supreme Court of India
Read also- Legal Glossary-Verdict
