Nation

 IIE DIGITAL DESK :  Significant development in the Indian judiciary, Chief Justice of India (CJI) Sanjiv Khanna has officially proposed the name of Justice B.R. Gavai as his successor to head the Supreme Court of India. The recommendation has been forwarded to the Ministry of Law and Justice, following the established tradition of seniority in the appointment of the Chief Justice. If approved by the President of India, Justice Gavai will take over as the 51st Chief Justice of India, succeeding CJI Khanna upon his retirement.

Justice B.R. Gavai, currently the second most senior judge in the Supreme Court, is well respected for his judicial acumen and deep understanding of constitutional matters. Born in Maharashtra, Justice Gavai began his career as an advocate in the Bombay High Court and was elevated as a judge of the Supreme Court in May 2019. He is also noted for being one of the few judges from a Scheduled Caste background to reach the highest echelons of the Indian judiciary.

The appointment of Justice Gavai, if formalized, will be a historic moment, reinforcing the judiciary’s commitment to diversity and representation. His term, though expected to be brief—lasting until November 2025—will be significant as it comes at a time when the judiciary is dealing with complex constitutional questions, rising pendency of cases, and public scrutiny over judicial transparency.

Legal experts and senior advocates have welcomed the proposal, noting Justice Gavai’s balanced approach and integrity. The recommendation now awaits the President’s approval, which traditionally follows swiftly in such cases of seniority-based succession.