**CJI Gavai Reflects on Judicial Appointments and Merit-Based Elevation**
Chief Justice of India, BR Gavai, recently addressed the complexities surrounding judicial appointments during an event at the Advocates’ Association of the Bombay High Court Bench in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Maharashtra. He recalled a notable incident involving Madras High Court Chief Justice SV Gangapurwala, who was not elevated to the Supreme Court, emphasizing that outcomes in the judicial appointment process do not always align with expectations.
CJI Gavai explained that one of the reasons for Justice Gangapurwala’s non-elevation was the existing representation from the Bombay High Court, which already had four judges in the Supreme Court. He mentioned a suggestion from Justice Dipankar Datta, proposing that the Bombay High Court should not receive a new Chief Justice until one of the current Supreme Court judges retires. Gavai stated, “We will postpone the position of Chief Justice of Bombay High Court so that the total quota of five does not exceed,” but refrained from discussing the matter further due to his position, promising to elaborate after November 24, 2025.
During his remarks, CJI Gavai acknowledged Justice Gangapurwala, who was present in the audience, stating, “Sanjay bhai, you have lost nothing by not coming to the Supreme Court. It is the loss of the Supreme Court.” He expressed his commitment to addressing the topic of judicial appointments and the elevation of judges in the Supreme Court Collegium once he retires, highlighting his efforts to ensure that merit remains the cornerstone of these decisions.
Gavai emphasized the importance of confidentiality within the Collegium, stating, “There is a convention that we must not leak out the proceedings of the Collegium.” However, he shared that after Justice PB Varale’s elevation to the Supreme Court, there was a consensus among Collegium members that the best Chief Justices from the high courts should be considered for the Supreme Court. He expressed satisfaction in advocating for merit-based elevations, regardless of caste or creed, focusing solely on candidates’ qualifications and integrity.
In discussing recent appointments, CJI Gavai mentioned Justice AS Chandurkar, who was elevated from the Bombay High Court. He noted a personal connection to Chandurkar, as they both hail from Nagpur, and highlighted that the decision to elevate him was unanimous after thorough consideration.
The Bombay High Court operates with two additional benches in the state, located in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar and Nagpur, alongside its principal bench. CJI Gavai’s remarks underscore the ongoing dialogue about judicial appointments and the commitment to maintaining high standards in the judiciary.
**FAQ**
**What is the significance of merit-based elevation in the judiciary?**
Merit-based elevation ensures that the most qualified and capable individuals are appointed to higher judicial positions, promoting integrity and competence within the legal system.
