Justice Bhushan Ramkrishna Gavai is set to become the 54th Chief Justice of India (CJI), with his swearing-in scheduled for 14th May 2025. He will succeed Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud. This marks a significant milestone in Indian judicial history! Justice Gavai's appointment makes him the second Dalit to hold the esteemed position of CJI, following in the footsteps of Justice K.G. Balakrishnan. His rise to the pinnacle of the judiciary reflects a career built on unwavering commitment, integrity, and legal brilliance.

Justice Gavai has built a long and respectable career and has significantly contributed to many judgments. Gavai's work is a true testament to their commitment to justice, equality, and the Constitution. Their achievement among the highest levels of the Indian judiciary, despite modest beginnings, is a source of inspiration for many individuals.

A Historic Appointment

Under Article 124 of the Constitution, the President of India appoints the Chief Justice of India. The outgoing CJI typically recommends the name of the senior-most judge of the Supreme Court to be appointed as the next CJI.

On 23rd April, 2025, Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud sent the name of Justice Gavai to the government. The President accepted this recommendation. The official Press Information Bureau (PIB) release stated:

"The President of India has appointed Justice Bhushan Ramkrishna Gavai as the 54th Chief Justice of India. He will assume office on 14th May 2025."

This is a proud moment, not only for the judiciary but also for the country as a whole.

Early Life and Education

Justice Gavai was born on 24 November 1960 in Amravati, Maharashtra. He was born into a family committed to public service. His father, Ramkrishna Gavai, was a noted political leader and former Governor.

Justice Gavai graduated with a law degree at the University of Mumbai. He enrolled as an advocate in 1985. Immediately, he expressed interest in constitutional law and service law.

Legal Career and Rise in the Judiciary

Justice Bhushan Ramkrishna Gavai began his legal career as a practitioner at the Bombay High Court, working under the guidance of the former Advocate General and Senior Counsel, R.S. Gavai. In 2003, he was appointed as a judge on the Bombay High Court bench, where he earned a reputation for being fair, articulate, and timely in his judgments.

In May 2019, he was elevated to the Supreme Court of India. His promotion was a landmark event, as he became the first-ever Dalit Supreme Court judge from the state of Maharashtra. Now, with his appointment as Chief Justice of India, Justice Gavai will be only the second Dalit to hold this prestigious position in India's history.

Key Judgments and Contributions

Justice Gavai has been involved in several important judgments. His judgments exhibit a much-needed balanced perspective, considering constitutional underpinnings alongside the interests of the common person. Below is a selection of judgments he was a part of:

1. The Demonetisation Judgement (2023)

In the case of Vivek Narayan Sharma v. Union of India, the five-judge Constitution Bench scrutinized the legality of the 2016 "demonetisation" initiative. In the majority judgment, Justice Gavai concluded that there had been sufficient consultation and affirmed that the decisions taken were both legally sound and constitutional. He remarked, "The decision, albeit bold, was substantively and procedurally within the exclusive power of the Union of India under the RBI Act."

2.  Electoral Bonds Judgment (2024)

In a landmark stride for transparency in political financing, Justice Gavai was part of the bench that held the Electoral Bonds Scheme unconstitutional. The Court held that the scheme violated citizens' right to information and forced recipients of anonymous donations and obstructed political accountability in democracy.

“Free and fair elections require transparency, not secrecy,” the bench stated.

3. Bulldozer Demolition Case

Justice Gavai held that state action, such as demolishing the homes of accused persons, without adequate notice or trial, violated the right to life and property under Article 21. His judgment emphasised the need for due process in all situations, even when dealing with serious allegations.

4. Article 370 Judgment (2023)

Justice Gavai was a member of the Bench that upheld the abrogation of Article 370, which granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir. The Court concluded that the measures adopted by Parliament had legal effect.

Although the verdict initiated political debate, it was an important legal ruling with lasting consequences for the future of Indian federalism.

5. Sub-classification within SCs and STs

In one of his most landmark judgments, Justice Gavai endorsed the concept of sub-classification within the Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) for the purpose of reservation. He emphasized that sub-classification was necessary to identify and uplift the most disadvantaged groups within the already marginalized SC/ST communities. This step, according to Justice Gavai, was crucial to ensure that the benefits of reservation reach those who are in the greatest need of assistance.

“Reservation must reach those who truly need it,” he said, affirming the principle of substantive equality.

Stand on Judicial Ethics and Transparency

Justice Gavai has spoken in support of accountability and transparency in the judiciary. He advocates for prompt hearings, swift disposal of cases, and Judicial access to the poor.

He is considered courteous in Court, but equally steadfast in the application of the Law. Lawyers appreciate him for being clear of thought and very respectful.

Why This Appointment Matters

His appointment as CJI is important for several reasons:

• He brings diversity to the apex court.
• It represents a strong signal of inclusion and representation in India's judiciary.
• His background exemplifies the promise of upward mobility via merit and integrity.
• His judgments demonstrate his commitment to liberty, democracy, and justice.

Tenure as CJI: What to Expect

Justice Gavai's tenure is only about six months until his retirement on November 23, 2025. Nevertheless, and we cannot stress this enough, short tenures can present opportunities for strong leadership and substantial decisions.

We can expect him to,

• Address backlogs and speedy hearings.
• Support the implementation of tech reform in the judiciary.
• Strengthen the judiciary's independence.
• Make the courts more friendly for citizens.

Public and Official Reactions

Legal experts and civil society have welcomed his appointment. Many see it as a step towards a more inclusive judiciary.

The Times of India quoted a number of senior advocates singling out his balanced approach and sense of humility.

The Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) also issued a note of appreciation, and said:

“Justice Gavai’s appointment reflects the increasingly vibrant judiciary’s commitment to diversity and constitutional values.”

Conclusion: A Symbol of Hope and Justice

Justice Bhushan Ramkrishna Gavai's transition has been inspirational. The story, from humble beginnings to being a top judicial officer, reflects both who we are - justice, opportunity, and equality - and what we need to do better as a society: build a judicial system for all people.

All citizens and legal professionals rely on him to lead a fair, inclusive, and reform-oriented judiciary as he takes the oath of office as the next Chief Justice of India.