New Delhi, May 14, 2025 — In a landmark moment for India’s judiciary and social inclusion, Justice Bhushan Ramkrishna Gavai was sworn in as the 52nd Chief Justice of India (CJI). He becomes the first Buddhist and only the second person from the Scheduled Castes (SC) community to hold this esteemed position after former CJI K.G. Balakrishnan.
A Significant Milestone for Representation
Justice Gavai’s elevation is widely seen as a victory for social justice and inclusivity in the Indian legal system. His appointment symbolizes a long-awaited representation for the Buddhist community, who follow the teachings of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the architect of the Indian Constitution.
“Justice Gavai’s appointment is a historic recognition of the ideals of Dr. Ambedkar, giving voice to marginalized communities at the highest level of Indian judiciary.”
His appointment is being hailed not just as a personal achievement but as a collective triumph for the Buddhist community, often underrepresented in positions of power.
“For the Buddhist community, Justice Gavai’s leadership in the Supreme Court is seen as a beacon of hope, a symbolic victory that strengthens their rightful place in India’s democratic fabric.”
Background: An Ambedkarite Legacy
Born on November 24, 1960, in Amravati, Maharashtra, Justice Gavai comes from a family deeply influenced by Ambedkarite ideology. His father, R.S. Gavai, was a respected Dalit leader, former Member of Parliament, and ex-Governor of Bihar, Sikkim, and Kerala.
Justice Gavai earned his law degree from Nagpur University and began practicing law in 1985. He was elevated as a Judge of the Bombay High Court in 2003 and appointed as a Supreme Court Judge in 2019.
Tenure and Expected Impact
Justice Gavai will serve as CJI until November 23, 2025, succeeding Justice Sanjiv Khanna. Although his tenure is brief, it is seen as symbolically powerful and impactful.
“Even a six-month tenure at the top judiciary can set crucial precedents for judicial inclusivity and equitable justice.”
Landmark Judgments
Throughout his career, Justice Gavai has been part of several significant verdicts:
- Article 370 Abrogation (Jammu & Kashmir special status)
- Demonetisation Petitions
- Several key constitutional and civil liberty cases
Seen as a Community Victory
Justice Gavai’s rise is being seen by many as a victory for the Buddhist community’s long-standing struggle for social justice.
“This historic appointment is not just an individual success but reflects India’s gradual movement towards a more inclusive judiciary where every community finds representation.”
Political analysts and social justice activists view his elevation as a positive step for the future, indicating that diverse voices are now being heard at the highest levels of governance.
Quick Facts: Justice B.R. Gavai
- Born: November 24, 1960 (Amravati, Maharashtra)
- Education: LLB from Nagpur University
- Career Start: 1985
- Appointed to Bombay High Court: 2003
- Elevated to Supreme Court: 2019
- Sworn in as 52nd CJI: May 14, 2025
- First Buddhist CJI in Indian history
- Second CJI from Scheduled Castes after K.G. Balakrishnan
