Outgoing Chief Justice of India BR Gavai has described the absence of a woman appointment to the Supreme Court during his tenure as one of his major regrets.
Speaking at a valedictory function held in his honour at the Supreme Court Ladies Bar Room earlier this week, the CJI noted that while the Collegium consistently worked toward increasing gender representation in the higher judiciary, the consultative process mandated under Articles 124 and 217 of the Constitution did not result in the elevation of a woman judge during his tenure.
During Justice Gavai’s term (May 14 to November 21, 2025), five judges were elevated to the Supreme Court, all of whom were men, despite the Collegium having recommended the names of several women jurists, including members of the Supreme Court Bar.
He observed that the presence of Justice BV Nagarathna, who is set to become the first woman Chief Justice of India in 2027, reflected the institution’s continuing progress toward gender parity at the highest level.
The event was organised by Senior Advocate Mahalakshmi Pavani and attended by 17 sitting judges of the Supreme Court. Senior Advocate Pavani described his tenure as marked by humility, accessibility, and unwavering commitment to constitutional principles.
Reflecting on his judicial journey, the CJI expressed gratitude and stated that while he sought to maintain composure on the Bench, he offered an unconditional apology in case any remarks during court proceedings may have inadvertently caused distress to any litigant or counsel.
Justice Surya Kant, the Chief Justice of India-designate, also addressed the gathering, characterising Justice Gavai’s stewardship as dynamic and forward-looking. He recognised the significant contribution of women practitioners to the legal profession and observed that their participation continued to strengthen the Supreme Court Bar and the wider judicial ecosystem.
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