Justice Bhushan Ramkrishna Gavai Appointed as 52nd Chief Justice of India
In a landmark moment for India’s judiciary, Justice Bhushan Ramkrishna Gavai has been named the 52nd Chief Justice of India (CJI). He will officially assume office on May 14, 2025, taking over from outgoing Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna, who retires on May 13.
Justice Gavai’s elevation to the top judicial post not only underscores his legal acumen and unwavering commitment to justice but also marks a significant milestone in India’s constitutional history. He becomes only the second Dalit ever to hold the prestigious position of Chief Justice, following the footsteps of Justice K. G. Balakrishnan.
A New Chapter in Indian Judiciary
Justice Gavai’s appointment is more than a routine succession; it is a moment of deep significance for the judiciary and society at large. Known for his clarity of thought, balanced judgments, and constitutional fidelity, Justice Gavai steps into a role that carries both immense responsibility and national expectations.
His tenure, though relatively brief—approximately six months, ending with his retirement on November 23, 2025—is expected to be impactful, especially in upholding constitutional values and addressing critical judicial backlogs.
From Amravati to the Apex Court
Born on November 24, 1960, in Amravati, Maharashtra, Justice Gavai grew up in a family with strong public service traditions. His father, Ramakrishna Suryabhan Gavai, popularly known as Dadasaheb Gavai, was a veteran Dalit leader and a former Governor of Bihar. This background deeply influenced Justice Gavai’s understanding of social justice and the law.
He began his legal career in 1985, working under the mentorship of Raja S. Bhonsale, a former Advocate General of Maharashtra and later a judge of the Bombay High Court. In 1987, Justice Gavai began his independent practice, focusing on Constitutional and Administrative Law.
His talent was quickly recognized. By 1992, he was appointed as Assistant Government Pleader and Additional Public Prosecutor at the Nagpur Bench of the Bombay High Court, and in 2000, he became the Government Pleader and Public Prosecutor, representing the state in several high-profile cases.
Judicial Journey: From High Court to Supreme Court
Justice Gavai was appointed as an Additional Judge of the Bombay High Court on November 14, 2003, and confirmed as a Permanent Judge in 2005. His judicial experience spans benches in Mumbai, Nagpur, Aurangabad, and Panaji, where he handled diverse and complex cases.
His elevation to the Supreme Court of India came on May 24, 2019, where he has since authored several notable judgments and contributed to the evolution of Indian jurisprudence.
Leadership Beyond the Bench
In addition to his judicial roles, Justice Gavai has served as the Executive Chairman of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA), playing a vital role in enhancing access to justice for marginalized and underrepresented communities. His focus on legal aid, mediation, and public legal awareness has been widely appreciated.
What Lies Ahead
Justice Gavai’s term as CJI, though short, is expected to address several critical matters, including judicial reform, digital integration of court processes, and pending constitutional cases. His background, both personal and professional, equips him to handle the nuanced challenges of leading the country’s top court.
With the judiciary often at the center of India’s evolving democratic narrative, Justice Gavai’s appointment brings both hope and responsibility. The nation will watch closely as he takes charge of one of the most vital institutions in Indian democracy.
