The Indian government has begun the process to appoint the next Chief Justice of India (CJI) as Justice B R Gavai is set to retire on November 23, 2024. This transition is crucial for the judiciary, with the Supreme Court Collegium expected to recommend a senior judge as his successor soon.
How is the New CJI Appointed?
By convention, the outgoing CJI recommends the senior-most Supreme Court judge as their successor. Justice Gavai, the 52nd CJI (since May 2024), will follow this practice. The government will formalize the appointment after the Collegium’s recommendation.
Justice Sanjay Karol, the second senior-most judge, is the frontrunner. If appointed, he will serve as CJI from November 24, 2024, until his retirement in April 2025—a tenure of five months.
Top Challenges for the Next CJI
The new CJI will face pressing issues:
- Case Backlog – Over 70,000 pending cases in the Supreme Court demand urgent reforms in case management.
- Judicial Appointments – Ongoing tensions between the judiciary and government over the Collegium system need resolution.
- Landmark Cases – Key verdicts on electoral bonds, minority rights, and federal disputes await attention.
- Tech Integration – Speeding up e-courts and AI-driven processes is vital for modernization.
Justice Gavai’s Key Contributions
During his tenure, Justice Gavai delivered significant rulings:
– EWS Quota Validity: Upheld reservations for economically weaker sections.
– Free Speech Protection: Restricted arbitrary internet shutdowns.
– Prison Reforms: Expedited bail hearings to reduce jail overcrowding.
His focus on social justice and judicial efficiency has left a lasting impact.
What’s Next?
The government is expected to finalize the appointment before November 23. Legal experts stress a smooth transition to maintain judicial stability.
For real-time updates on the CJI appointment, follow our coverage. (Word count: 600)
