Justice BR Gavai To Be India’s Next Chief Justice, Swearing-In On May 14

Justice Gavai will be the 52nd Chief Justice of India and the second Dalit CJI after KG Balakrishnan

New Delhi, April 16, 2025 – In a significant development for India’s judiciary, Justice Bhushan Ramkrishna Gavai is set to become the 52nd Chief Justice of India (CJI). Current CJI Sanjiv Khanna, who retires on May 13, has officially recommended Justice Gavai’s name to the Union Law Ministry, as per established tradition.

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Justice Gavai will take oath on May 14 and is expected to serve a six-month tenure until his retirement in November 2025.

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👨‍⚖️ Second Dalit To Hold India’s Highest Judicial Post

Justice Gavai’s elevation marks a historic moment as he will become only the second Dalit CJI, after Justice KG Balakrishnan, who served from 2007 to 2010. His appointment is seen as a significant step for representation and inclusivity in the judiciary.

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⚖️ Key Judgments & Judicial Contributions

Justice Gavai has been part of several high-profile and landmark rulings, including:

• Upholding the Modi government’s 2016 demonetisation move
• Striking down the electoral bonds scheme as unconstitutional

His judgments have significantly shaped contemporary Indian legal discourse and showcased a deep engagement with constitutional principles.

Tags: Justice BR Gavai, next Chief Justice of India, CJI Sanjiv Khanna retirement, CJI 2025, Supreme Court of India, Dalit Chief Justice, Indian judiciary, Justice Gavai appointment, electoral bonds verdict, demonetisation verdict