New Delhi: Justice BR Gavai was inaugurated as the 52nd Chief Justice of India today, marking a historic milestone in the nation’s judiciary. After taking the oath, Justice Gavai paid floral tributes to the statues of Mahatma Gandhi and BR Ambedkar, demonstrating his respect for the nation’s founding fathers and the Constitution.
The swearing-in ceremony was attended by prominent officials, including senior Supreme Court judges, government representatives, and members of the legal community. The President of India officially confirmed Justice Gavai’s appointment as Chief Justice following the recommendation of the outgoing Chief Justice.
As Chief Justice, Justice Gavai will oversee the judiciary’s role in safeguarding the Constitution and delivering justice. His tenure is expected to present both significant challenges and opportunities for judicial reforms and constitutional upholding.
In his remarks, Justice Gavai expressed his respect for Gandhi and Ambedkar, recognizing them as the guiding lights for India and its Constitution. This event was held at Rashtrapati Bhavan, where President Droupadi Murmu administered the oath. Notably, Justice Gavai is the first Buddhist to hold the position of Chief Justice of India.
The ceremony was graced by the presence of notable figures including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal, along with other Union ministers. Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar and former President Ram Nath Kovind also participated in the event.
Justice Gavai succeeded retired Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna, who stepped down the previous day. His tenure is projected to last about six months. The event saw participation from distinguished legal and political personalities, including sitting and retired judges from the Supreme Court and High Courts.
A number of legal experts, government officials, and political leaders also attended. Justice Gavai is the second Chief Justice from the Scheduled Caste community, after Justice K. G. Balakrishnan, who served from 2007 to 2010.
Born on November 24, 1960, in Amravati, Maharashtra, Justice Gavai began his legal career on March 16, 1985. He initially practised under Raja S Bhonsale, a former Advocate General and High Court judge, until 1987.
Justice Gavai’s background and judicial philosophy are expected to influence his tenure as Chief Justice. His dedication to constitutional principles and justice will be vital in managing India’s complex legal framework during his term.