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Justice Bhushan Ramkrishna Gavai, born on November 24, 1960, in Amravati, Maharashtra, is poised to become the 52nd Chief Justice of India on May 14, 2025. His elevation to this esteemed position marks a significant milestone in India’s judicial history
1. Trailblazer for Dalit Representation in the Judiciary
Justice Gavai’s appointment to the Supreme Court in 2019 was historic, as he became the first Dalit judge in nearly a decade. His elevation was expedited by the Supreme Court Collegium to ensure adequate representation of marginalized communities in the judiciary, reflecting the constitutional commitment to affirmative action.
2. Impressive Legal Career
After enrolling as an advocate in 1985, Justice Gavai practiced primarily at the Nagpur Bench of the Bombay High Court. He served as the Government Pleader and Public Prosecutor for the Nagpur Bench before his elevation to the High Court in 2003. In 2019, he was appointed as a Supreme Court judge, where he has since authored significant judgments, including the majority opinion in the 2023 case upholding the Union’s 2016 demonetization scheme.
3. Advocate for Individual Liberty
Justice Gavai is recognized for his unwavering commitment to individual rights. Notably, he authored the judgment granting bail to former Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia in 2024, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding personal liberty and expediting trials to prevent judicial delays.
4. Champion of Judicial Reforms
Demonstrating a forward-thinking approach, Justice Gavai inaugurated India’s first exclusive digital court for cases under the Negotiable Instruments Act in Kerala in 2024. This initiative aims to enhance access to justice through technology, reflecting his commitment to modernizing the judicial process.
5. Educational Background and Leadership Roles
Justice Gavai completed his B.A.LL.B. from Nagpur University and has held various leadership positions, including serving as the Executive Chairman of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA). He is also the Chancellor of Maharashtra National Law University, Nagpur, contributing to legal education and policy development
As he prepares to assume the role of Chief Justice, Justice Gavai’s tenure is anticipated to further strengthen the judiciary’s independence and uphold the rule of law in India.
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