Justice BR Gavai: 64-year-old will now become the most senior judge of India, Amravati is his birthplace
Justice Bhushan Ramakrishna Gavai, who is an Indian judge and currently a judge of the Supreme Court of India. He has also previously been a judge of the Bombay High Court between 2003 and 2019. In its meeting held on 8 May 2019, the Supreme Court Collegium proposed the name of Justice Bhushan Ramakrishna Gavai for the Supreme Court judge. Let us tell you that after Justice K.G. Balakrishnan, Gavai became the second Dalit judge to be appointed as the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. Justice BR Gavai will hold the post till November 23, 2025 after the retirement of Justice Sanjiv Khanna on May 13, 2025.
What is the process of selection of the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court?
Know how the CJI is selected and what is the role of seniority in it
The Chief Justice of India (CJI) of the Supreme Court of India is selected under an established tradition and process. It is not written in detail in the Constitution, but this process is adopted according to the tradition followed over the years and the instructions of the Supreme Court.
CJI appointment process:
Seniority Rule:
In India, usually the most senior judge in the Supreme Court is appointed as the next CJI.
Seniority is determined on the basis of the date of their appointment to the Supreme Court.
Recommendation by Outgoing CJI:
The current Chief Justice writes a letter to the President recommending the name of his successor (senior-most judge).
Presidential Appointment:
The President of India, under Article 124(2) of the Constitution, formally appoints the new CJI after receiving the recommendation.
No political interference:
The entire process is considered apolitical and impartial, and has been carried out according to widely recognised convention so far.
Constitutional Provisions:
The President of India appoints the judges of the Supreme Court under Article 124(2) of the Constitution. Though there is no specific mention of the process of selection of the CJI, convention has dictated it.
Can the process be changed?
Instances of breaking the convention of seniority in the selection of the CJI of the Supreme Court are very rare. But this convention is not mandatory, i.e. legally the government can appoint any other qualified judge as CJI, provided there are sufficient reasons.
In brief:
- Step description
Most senior judge is selected
Current CJI sends recommendation to President
President makes formal appointment
There is no exam or interview
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