In a moment laden with constitutional significance and emotional depth, newly sworn-in Chief Justice of India, Justice Bhushan Ramkrishna Gavai, responded to greetings at the Supreme Court with the salutation “Jai Bhim.” The phrase, a tribute to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, is deeply symbolic of the Dalit rights movement and reflects Justice Gavai’s grounding in the ideals of social justice and constitutional morality.
This rare and powerful gesture, reported by Bar and Bench, came just hours after he took the oath of office at Rashtrapati Bhavan, underscoring the significance of his elevation—not just judicially, but socially and historically.
Justice Gavai was formally sworn in on Tuesday as the 52nd Chief Justice of India (CJI), becoming the first Buddhist and only the second judge from the Scheduled Castes to hold the highest judicial position in the country. His appointment represents a milestone for the Indian judiciary, symbolising inclusivity and a reaffirmation of constitutional values.
He will serve in the top post until his retirement on November 23.
A career rooted in justice and reform
Throughout his judicial career, Justice Gavai has served on several key benches that have delivered influential judgments impacting Indian law and society.
He was a member of the Constitution Bench that upheld the Central Government’s decision to abrogate Article 370, thereby revoking the special status of Jammu and Kashmir. He also played a pivotal role in striking down the electoral bonds scheme as unconstitutional—one of the most consequential judgments in recent years concerning political funding and transparency.
Justice Gavai was also on the bench that upheld the Centre’s 2016 demonetisation move, validating the government’s contentious decision to invalidate high-denomination currency notes.
In addition to these landmark rulings, Justice Gavai has also been part of benches that have taken a strong stand against the misuse of administrative power, including the arbitrary use of bulldozers to demolish properties without due process. He has advocated for stringent norms to prevent such actions, reinforcing the judiciary's role in protecting individual rights and ensuring procedural fairness.
Also Read: CJI Khanna retires, Justice BR Gavai named 52nd Chief Justice
Significant orders in high-profile cases
Justice Gavai has presided over several high-profile cases involving prominent political figures and civil rights activists.
He headed the bench that granted bail to Aam Aadmi Party leader Manish Sisodia in a money laundering case—a decision that later served as a precedent for bail in similar cases involving other accused.
He also led the bench that stayed Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s conviction in the "Modi surname" defamation case, a ruling that had significant political and legal implications ahead of national elections.
Additionally, Justice Gavai was part of the bench that granted regular bail to civil rights activist Teesta Atul Setalvad, who was accused in a case related to the 2002 Godhra riots.
Shaping a judicial legacy
Justice Gavai’s rise to the top of the judiciary is more than a personal achievement—it is a powerful message of the evolving face of Indian democracy. As Chief Justice, his brief tenure will be closely watched, not only for the judgments he delivers but for the institutional legacy he leaves behind.
His assertion of “Jai Bhim” from the bench—the first of its kind from a Chief Justice—sets a tone of social awareness and constitutional fidelity. As India navigates complex legal and societal challenges, Chief Justice Gavai’s leadership at the apex court will be critical in steering the judiciary’s commitment to justice, equality, and the rule of law.
Also Read: Justice BR Gavai sworn in as 52nd CJI, to serve for 6 months
Follow us
