Justices Anjaria, Bishnoi, and Chandurkar Sworn In as Supreme Court Judges
Justices Ashutosh Govindji Anjaria, Vijay Bishnoi, and Chandurkar were sworn in as judges of the Supreme Court of India on Friday. Chief Justice of India B.R. Gavai administered the oath of office at a ceremony held in the apex court's premises. These appointments are crucial for the functioning of the nation's highest judicial body, helping to manage its extensive caseload and deliver justice.
Unpacked:
Appointing new judges is crucial to managing the Supreme Court’s large backlog of cases—over 82,000 as of early 2025—ensuring timely justice, and maintaining the court’s full strength, which currently stands at 34 judges including the Chief Justice.
Supreme Court judges are appointed by the President of India in consultation with the judiciary, primarily through a body called the Collegium, which consists of the Chief Justice and senior Supreme Court judges. This system aims to ensure independence and avoid political influence.
The Supreme Court is grappling with a high volume of pending cases, frequent leadership changes, and the need to maintain administrative efficiency and institutional stability, especially as three Chief Justices will serve within a single year in 2025.
Justice Bhushan Ramkrishna Gavai is the current Chief Justice of India, sworn in on 14 May 2025. He has served on the Supreme Court since 2019 and now leads both the Court and its Collegium, overseeing appointments and administrative decisions.