On Wednesday, May 14, 2025, Justice Bhushan Ramkrishna Gavai was formally sworn in as the 52nd Chief Justice of India during a ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan. President Droupadi Murmu administered the oath of office.
Justice Gavai, notably the first Buddhist to assume the role of Chief Justice of India, took his oath in Hindi, pledging to uphold the Constitution and faithfully discharge his duties.
Following the ceremony, he greeted dignitaries and guests with folded hands, acknowledging the applause.
He exchanged handshakes with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and others. Among those present were his family members, including his predecessor, Justice Sanjiv Khanna, who sat in the front row.
In a touching moment, Justice Gavai bowed to touch his mother’s feet as a mark of respect, while Prime Minister Modi also walked over to greet her.
The ceremony concluded with the playing of the National Anthem, attended by a large gathering of sitting and retired judges from the Supreme Court and various High Courts.
After the swearing-in, Chief Justice Gavai proceeded to the Supreme Court to join his fellow judges for tea before beginning the day’s hearings. He will continue to preside over a Bench alongside Justice Augustine George Masih.
In the coming days, Justice Gavai is expected to convene a meeting of all Supreme Court judges to outline his vision for the judiciary and seek their input.
With just about ten days before the court enters its annual summer recess, the top court will remain partially operational, with at least three Benches scheduled to hear urgent matters.
