Justice B.R. Gavai becomes the 52nd Chief Justice of India, marking a historic milestone as the first Buddhist and second Dalit CJI. Discover his legal journey and impact on SC representation.

Justice B.R. Gavai Sworn In as the 52nd Chief Justice of India

In a historic ceremony held at the Rashtrapati Bhavan on May 14, 2025, Justice Bhushan Ramkrishna Gavai was officially sworn in as the 52nd Chief Justice of India (CJI). The oath was administered by President Droupadi Murmu.

Historic Firsts: Buddhist and Dalit Representation

Justice Gavai’s appointment marks a significant moment in Indian judicial history. He is the first member of the Buddhist community and only the second Dalit to hold the office of CJI, following Justice K.G. Balakrishnan.

He succeeds Justice Sanjiv Khanna, who retired on May 13, 2025. Justice Gavai will serve as Chief Justice until his retirement on November 23, 2025.

Early Life and Background

Born on November 24, 1960, in Amravati, Maharashtra, Justice Gavai hails from a family rooted in Ambedkarite values. His father, R.S. Gavai, was a prominent leader of the Republican Party of India and served as governor of Bihar, Sikkim, and Kerala.

Legal Career and Judicial Service

Justice Gavai began his legal career under the mentorship of Bar. Raja S. Bhonsale, a former High Court judge. Between 1987 and 1990, he practiced independently at the Bombay High Court, later focusing on its Nagpur Bench from 1990 onward.

He practiced constitutional and administrative law, representing public entities like SICOM and several municipal corporations. Justice Gavai also served as:

Standing Counsel for Amravati University and local municipal bodies

Additional Public Prosecutor and Assistant Government Pleader (1992–1993)

Government Pleader and Public Prosecutor at Nagpur Bench (2000)

He was appointed an Additional Judge of the Bombay High Court on November 14, 2003.

Rising Representation in the Supreme Court

Justice Gavai’s elevation reflects a rising trend in the Supreme Court of India‘s inclusivity. Alongside Justice C.T. Ravikumar and Justice Prasanna B. Varale, he is one of three active Justices from the Scheduled Caste (SC) community—an unprecedented level of representation in the Court’s history.

Notably, both Justice Gavai and Justice Varale are Buddhists, making this the first time two Buddhist justices serve concurrently on the Supreme Court bench.

Conclusion: A Landmark Moment in Indian Judicial History

The appointment of Justice B.R. Gavai as the 52nd Chief Justice of India is not just a personal milestone—it is a historic moment for India’s judiciary. His journey from Amravati to the nation’s highest judicial office underscores the progress toward greater representation and inclusivity in the legal system. As the first Buddhist and second Dalit to assume this esteemed role, Justice Gavai’s tenure symbolizes hope, diversity, and justice for all communities. His legacy will likely inspire generations of legal minds committed to equality and constitutional integrity.