On April 16, 2025, Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna recommended Justice Bhushan Ramkrishna Gavai as his successor, paving the way for a historic moment in India’s judicial history. Justice Gavai, the senior-most judge of the Supreme Court, is slated to take oath as the 52nd Chief Justice of India (CJI) on May 14, 2025, succeeding CJI Khanna, who retires on May 13. This appointment marks a significant milestone, as Justice Gavai will become only the second Dalit to hold the prestigious position, following Justice K.G. Balakrishnan in 2007. With a distinguished career spanning four decades, Justice Gavai’s journey from a small town in Maharashtra to the pinnacle of India’s judiciary is a testament to his intellect, integrity, and commitment to justice. As of April 16, 2025, his elevation is celebrated as a beacon of inclusivity and excellence in the Indian legal system.
Early Life: Roots in Amravati
Born on November 24, 1960, in Amravati, Maharashtra, Bhushan Ramkrishna Gavai hails from a family deeply inspired by the ideals of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the architect of India’s Constitution. His father, Ramkrishna Suryabhan Gavai, was a towering figure in Maharashtra politics, leading the Republican Party of India (RPI) (Gavai faction) and serving as a Member of Parliament from Amravati in 1998. He also held gubernatorial positions in Bihar, Sikkim, and Kerala between 2006 and 2011. This legacy of public service and social justice profoundly shaped young Bhushan’s worldview, instilling in him a passion for law and equality.
Raised in a Buddhist family that embraced Ambedkarite principles, Gavai grew up in an environment where education and social reform were paramount. His mother, Kamala, provided a nurturing foundation, while his brother, Rajendra Gavai, followed in their father’s footsteps as a politician. Despite his family’s political prominence, Bhushan chose the path of law, driven by a desire to uphold constitutional values through the judiciary. His early education in Amravati laid the groundwork for his academic excellence, culminating in a law degree that would launch his illustrious career.
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A Legal Luminary’s Beginnings
Justice Gavai enrolled as an advocate on March 16, 1985, marking the start of a remarkable legal journey. He began his career under the mentorship of the late Raja S. Bhonsale, a former Advocate General and High Court Judge, whose guidance honed Gavai’s legal acumen. From 1987 to 1990, he practiced independently at the Bombay High Court, gaining experience in a range of legal matters. In 1990, he shifted his focus to the Nagpur Bench of the Bombay High Court, where he specialized in Constitutional and Administrative Law a domain that would become his forte.
During this period, Gavai established himself as a formidable advocate, representing prestigious clients such as the Nagpur and Amravati Municipal Corporations, Amravati University, and state-run corporations like SICOM and DCVL. He also served as Standing Counsel for various municipal councils in the Vidarbha region, showcasing his ability to navigate complex legal landscapes. His reputation for meticulous preparation and principled advocacy grew, setting the stage for his ascent in the judiciary.
Public Service and Prosecutorial Roles
Gavai’s commitment to public service was evident early on. In August 1992, he was appointed Assistant Government Pleader and Additional Public Prosecutor at the Nagpur Bench of the Bombay High Court, a role he held until July 1993. His performance in this capacity led to his reappointment as Government Pleader and Public Prosecutor for the same bench on January 17, 2000. These roles required him to represent the state in high-stakes cases, further sharpening his expertise in administrative and constitutional matters.
His prosecutorial work was marked by a balanced approach, combining legal rigor with a deep understanding of public interest. Colleagues from this period recall his ability to argue complex cases with clarity and conviction, earning him respect from both the bench and the bar.
Judicial Ascent: Bombay High Court
On November 14, 2003, Gavai was elevated as an Additional Judge of the Bombay High Court, a significant milestone in his career. He became a permanent judge on November 12, 2005, serving for 16 years across the court’s principal seat in Mumbai and benches in Nagpur, Aurangabad, and Panaji. During his tenure, he presided over a wide array of cases, including civil, criminal, constitutional, and administrative matters, earning a reputation for fairness and scholarly judgments.
His time at the Bombay High Court was characterized by a commitment to upholding constitutional principles, particularly in cases involving public welfare and governance. Gavai’s ability to handle diverse assignments and deliver well-reasoned verdicts made him a standout figure in the judiciary, paving the way for his elevation to the Supreme Court.
Supreme Court Tenure: Landmark Judgments
On May 24, 2019, Justice Gavai was appointed a Judge of the Supreme Court of India, a move that recognized his seniority, integrity, and merit, as noted by the Supreme Court Collegium. His appointment was also significant for its emphasis on “due representation,” as he became the first Scheduled Caste judge in the Supreme Court since Justice K.G. Balakrishnan’s retirement in 2010. Since joining the apex court, Gavai has been a part of several Constitution Benches, delivering landmark judgments that have shaped India’s legal landscape.
Among his notable contributions is his role in the five-judge bench that unanimously upheld the Centre’s 2019 decision to abrogate Article 370, revoking the special status of Jammu and Kashmir. In the 2023 demonetization case, Gavai concurred with the majority in a 4:1 verdict, affirming the legality of the Centre’s 2016 decision to demonetize ₹1,000 and ₹500 currency notes. He also played a pivotal role in striking down the electoral bonds scheme, declaring it unconstitutional ma ruling that reinforced transparency in political funding.
In the high-profile contempt case involving advocate Prashant Bhushan, Gavai was part of the bench that addressed critical issues of free speech and judicial accountability. Additionally, he joined a seven-judge Constitution Bench that ruled states could create sub-classifications within Scheduled Castes for targeted reservation benefits, a decision with far-reaching implications for affirmative action. His judgment in Vivek Narayan Sharma v Union of India (2023) upheld the demonetization scheme, emphasizing the Union’s consultation with the RBI and the scheme’s proportionality.
Gavai’s judicial philosophy is rooted in constitutional values, balancing individual rights with public interest. His opinions often reflect a deep understanding of socio-economic realities, particularly for marginalized communities, aligning with his Ambedkarite heritage.
Administrative Roles and Contributions
Beyond the courtroom, Justice Gavai holds significant administrative responsibilities. He serves as the Chancellor of Maharashtra National Law University, Nagpur, where he promotes legal education and research. As the Executive Chairman of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA), he has worked tirelessly to enhance access to justice, particularly for underserved populations. His leadership in NALSA has focused on expanding legal aid services and raising awareness about citizens’ rights, reflecting his commitment to social justice.
A Historic Appointment
Justice Gavai’s recommendation as the next CJI, announced on April 16, 2025, follows the established seniority convention in judicial appointments. President Droupadi Murmu will administer the oath of office on May 14, 2025, marking the start of his six-month tenure as CJI, set to conclude on November 23, 2025, upon his retirement at age 65. His appointment is a moment of pride for the Scheduled Caste community and a symbol of India’s evolving judicial diversity.
As CJI, Gavai is expected to navigate complex constitutional matters, including pending cases on the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, and other issues of national significance. His brief but impactful tenure will likely focus on strengthening judicial independence, promoting inclusivity, and upholding the rule of law. Legal scholars anticipate that his Ambedkarite perspective will influence his approach, emphasizing justice for the marginalized and accountability in governance.
Personal Life and Legacy
Justice Gavai is known for his humility and dedication, traits that have endeared him to colleagues and litigants alike. While he maintains a low public profile, his personal life reflects the values of simplicity and service that define his professional journey. His family’s legacy of public service through his father’s political and gubernatorial roles and his brother’s political engagement has shaped his worldview, yet he has carved a distinct path in the judiciary.
Outside the courtroom, Gavai is said to enjoy reading legal scholarship and engaging in discussions on constitutional law. His commitment to education and access to justice extends beyond his official roles, as he mentors young lawyers and advocates for systemic reforms to make the judiciary more inclusive.
As Justice Gavai prepares to assume the mantle of CJI, his legacy is already taking shape. His contributions to landmark judgments, his leadership in legal education and services, and his historic appointment as the second Dalit CJI underscore his role as a trailblazer. His tenure, though brief, promises to leave an indelible mark on India’s judiciary, reinforcing its role as a guardian of constitutional values.
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Conclusion: A New Chapter for India’s Judiciary
Justice Bhushan Ramkrishna Gavai’s ascent to the position of Chief Justice of India on May 14, 2025, is a moment of profound significance. From his roots in Amravati to his pivotal roles in the Bombay High Court and Supreme Court, Gavai’s journey embodies the ideals of justice, equality, and service. As he prepares to lead India’s highest court, his Ambedkarite heritage and judicial acumen will guide his efforts to uphold the Constitution and serve the nation. For a country navigating complex social and legal challenges, Justice Gavai’s leadership offers hope and inspiration a reminder that the judiciary remains a bastion of fairness and progress.
Justice BR Gavai: A Trailblazer Set to Become India’s 52nd Chief Justice
Introduction
On April 16, 2025, Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna recommended Justice Bhushan Ramkrishna Gavai as his successor, paving the way for a historic moment in India’s judicial history. Justice Gavai, the senior-most judge of the Supreme Court, is slated to take oath as the 52nd Chief Justice of India (CJI) on May 14, 2025, succeeding CJI Khanna, who retires on May 13. This appointment marks a significant milestone, as Justice Gavai will become only the second Dalit to hold the prestigious position, following Justice K.G. Balakrishnan in 2007. With a distinguished career spanning four decades, Justice Gavai’s journey from a small town in Maharashtra to the pinnacle of India’s judiciary is a testament to his intellect, integrity, and commitment to justice. As of April 16, 2025, his elevation is celebrated as a beacon of inclusivity and excellence in the Indian legal system.
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Early Life: Roots in Amravati
Born on November 24, 1960, in Amravati, Maharashtra, Bhushan Ramkrishna Gavai hails from a family deeply inspired by the ideals of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the architect of India’s Constitution. His father, Ramkrishna Suryabhan Gavai, was a towering figure in Maharashtra politics, leading the Republican Party of India (RPI) (Gavai faction) and serving as a Member of Parliament from Amravati in 1998. He also held gubernatorial positions in Bihar, Sikkim, and Kerala between 2006 and 2011. This legacy of public service and social justice profoundly shaped young Bhushan’s worldview, instilling in him a passion for law and equality.
Raised in a Buddhist family that embraced Ambedkarite principles, Gavai grew up in an environment where education and social reform were paramount. His mother, Kamala, provided a nurturing foundation, while his brother, Rajendra Gavai, followed in their father’s footsteps as a politician. Despite his family’s political prominence, Bhushan chose the path of law, driven by a desire to uphold constitutional values through the judiciary. His early education in Amravati laid the groundwork for his academic excellence, culminating in a law degree that would launch his illustrious career.
A Legal Luminary’s Beginnings
Justice Gavai enrolled as an advocate on March 16, 1985, marking the start of a remarkable legal journey. He began his career under the mentorship of the late Raja S. Bhonsale, a former Advocate General and High Court Judge, whose guidance honed Gavai’s legal acumen. From 1987 to 1990, he practiced independently at the Bombay High Court, gaining experience in a range of legal matters. In 1990, he shifted his focus to the Nagpur Bench of the Bombay High Court, where he specialized in Constitutional and Administrative Law a domain that would become his forte.
During this period, Gavai established himself as a formidable advocate, representing prestigious clients such as the Nagpur and Amravati Municipal Corporations, Amravati University, and state-run corporations like SICOM and DCVL. He also served as Standing Counsel for various municipal councils in the Vidarbha region, showcasing his ability to navigate complex legal landscapes. His reputation for meticulous preparation and principled advocacy grew, setting the stage for his ascent in the judiciary.
Public Service and Prosecutorial Roles
Gavai’s commitment to public service was evident early on. In August 1992, he was appointed Assistant Government Pleader and Additional Public Prosecutor at the Nagpur Bench of the Bombay High Court, a role he held until July 1993. His performance in this capacity led to his reappointment as Government Pleader and Public Prosecutor for the same bench on January 17, 2000. These roles required him to represent the state in high-stakes cases, further sharpening his expertise in administrative and constitutional matters.
His prosecutorial work was marked by a balanced approach, combining legal rigor with a deep understanding of public interest. Colleagues from this period recall his ability to argue complex cases with clarity and conviction, earning him respect from both the bench and the bar.
Judicial Ascent: Bombay High Court
On November 14, 2003, Gavai was elevated as an Additional Judge of the Bombay High Court, a significant milestone in his career. He became a permanent judge on November 12, 2005, serving for 16 years across the court’s principal seat in Mumbai and benches in Nagpur, Aurangabad, and Panaji. During his tenure, he presided over a wide array of cases, including civil, criminal, constitutional, and administrative matters, earning a reputation for fairness and scholarly judgments.
His time at the Bombay High Court was characterized by a commitment to upholding constitutional principles, particularly in cases involving public welfare and governance. Gavai’s ability to handle diverse assignments and deliver well-reasoned verdicts made him a standout figure in the judiciary, paving the way for his elevation to the Supreme Court.
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Supreme Court Tenure: Landmark Judgments
On May 24, 2019, Justice Gavai was appointed a Judge of the Supreme Court of India, a move that recognized his seniority, integrity, and merit, as noted by the Supreme Court Collegium. His appointment was also significant for its emphasis on “due representation,” as he became the first Scheduled Caste judge in the Supreme Court since Justice K.G. Balakrishnan’s retirement in 2010. Since joining the apex court, Gavai has been a part of several Constitution Benches, delivering landmark judgments that have shaped India’s legal landscape.
Among his notable contributions is his role in the five-judge bench that unanimously upheld the Centre’s 2019 decision to abrogate Article 370, revoking the special status of Jammu and Kashmir. In the 2023 demonetization case, Gavai concurred with the majority in a 4:1 verdict, affirming the legality of the Centre’s 2016 decision to demonetize ₹1,000 and ₹500 currency notes. He also played a pivotal role in striking down the electoral bonds scheme, declaring it unconstitutional a ruling that reinforced transparency in political funding.
In the high-profile contempt case involving advocate Prashant Bhushan, Gavai was part of the bench that addressed critical issues of free speech and judicial accountability. Additionally, he joined a seven-judge Constitution Bench that ruled states could create sub-classifications within Scheduled Castes for targeted reservation benefits, a decision with far-reaching implications for affirmative action. His judgment in Vivek Narayan Sharma v Union of India (2023) upheld the demonetization scheme, emphasizing the Union’s consultation with the RBI and the scheme’s proportionality.
Gavai’s judicial philosophy is rooted in constitutional values, balancing individual rights with public interest. His opinions often reflect a deep understanding of socio-economic realities, particularly for marginalized communities, aligning with his Ambedkarite heritage.
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Administrative Roles and Contributions
Beyond the courtroom, Justice Gavai holds significant administrative responsibilities. He serves as the Chancellor of Maharashtra National Law University, Nagpur, where he promotes legal education and research. As the Executive Chairman of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA), he has worked tirelessly to enhance access to justice, particularly for underserved populations. His leadership in NALSA has focused on expanding legal aid services and raising awareness about citizens’ rights, reflecting his commitment to social justice.
A Historic Appointment
Justice Gavai’s recommendation as the next CJI, announced on April 16, 2025, follows the established seniority convention in judicial appointments. President Droupadi Murmu will administer the oath of office on May 14, 2025, marking the start of his six-month tenure as CJI, set to conclude on November 23, 2025, upon his retirement at age 65. His appointment is a moment of pride for the Scheduled Caste community and a symbol of India’s evolving judicial diversity.
As CJI, Gavai is expected to navigate complex constitutional matters, including pending cases on the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, and other issues of national significance. His brief but impactful tenure will likely focus on strengthening judicial independence, promoting inclusivity, and upholding the rule of law. Legal scholars anticipate that his Ambedkarite perspective will influence his approach, emphasizing justice for the marginalized and accountability in governance.
Personal Life and Legacy
Justice Gavai is known for his humility and dedication, traits that have endeared him to colleagues and litigants alike. While he maintains a low public profile, his personal life reflects the values of simplicity and service that define his professional journey. His family’s legacy of public service through his father’s political and gubernatorial roles and his brother’s political engagement has shaped his worldview, yet he has carved a distinct path in the judiciary.
Outside the courtroom, Gavai is said to enjoy reading legal scholarship and engaging in discussions on constitutional law. His commitment to education and access to justice extends beyond his official roles, as he mentors young lawyers and advocates for systemic reforms to make the judiciary more inclusive.
As Justice Gavai prepares to assume the mantle of CJI, his legacy is already taking shape. His contributions to landmark judgments, his leadership in legal education and services, and his historic appointment as the second Dalit CJI underscore his role as a trailblazer. His tenure, though brief, promises to leave an indelible mark on India’s judiciary, reinforcing its role as a guardian of constitutional values.
Conclusion
Justice Bhushan Ramkrishna Gavai’s ascent to the position of Chief Justice of India on May 14, 2025, is a moment of profound significance. From his roots in Amravati to his pivotal roles in the Bombay High Court and Supreme Court, Gavai’s journey embodies the ideals of justice, equality, and service. As he prepares to lead India’s highest court, his Ambedkarite heritage and judicial acumen will guide his efforts to uphold the Constitution and serve the nation. For a country navigating complex social and legal challenges, Justice Gavai’s leadership offers hope and inspiration a reminder that the judiciary remains a bastion of fairness and progress.
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Career Progression Table
| Role | Location | Key Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|
| Advocate | Bombay High Court, Nagpur Bench | Practiced Constitutional and Administrative Law, represented municipal corporations |
| Assistant Government Pleader | Nagpur Bench, Bombay High Court | Represented state in legal proceedings (1992-1993) |
| Government Pleader & Public Prosecutor | Nagpur Bench, Bombay High Court | Handled high-stakes state cases (2000) |
| Additional Judge | Bombay High Court | Presided over diverse cases across Mumbai, Nagpur, Aurangabad, and Panaji (2003-2005) |
| Permanent Judge | Bombay High Court | Delivered judgments in civil, criminal, and constitutional matters (2005-2019) |
| Supreme Court Judge | Supreme Court of India | Part of Constitution Benches, delivered landmark judgments (2019-present) |
| Chief Justice of India (Designate) | Supreme Court of India | Set to lead judiciary, oversee constitutional matters (May 14, 2025-November 23, 2025) |
Key Skills and Attributes
| Skill/Attribute | Relevance to Role |
|---|---|
| Constitutional Law Expertise | Critical for landmark judgments on Article 370, demonetization, and electoral bonds |
| Administrative Law Acumen | Essential for handling cases involving governance and public institutions |
| Judicial Integrity | Upholds fairness and independence in high-profile cases |
| Leadership in Legal Services | Drives access to justice as Executive Chairman of NALSA |
| Ambedkarite Perspective | Influences inclusive approach to justice, particularly for marginalized communities |