In an unprecedented move that has set a new benchmark for judicial transitions, former Chief Justice of India BR Gavai demonstrated remarkable grace by leaving the official Mercedes-Benz vehicle for his successor Justice Surya Kant immediately after the swearing-in ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Monday.
A Historic Transition at Rashtrapati Bhavan
Justice Surya Kant was sworn in as the 53rd Chief Justice of India on Monday morning in a ceremony presided over by President Droupadi Murmu. The event marked the beginning of his nearly 15-month tenure as the head of the Indian judiciary, with his term scheduled to conclude on February 9, 2027, when he attains the age of 65.
The oath-taking ceremony witnessed the presence of eminent dignitaries including Vice President CP Radhakrishnan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and outgoing CJI BR Gavai. Justice Surya Kant took the oath in Hindi in the name of God, adding a traditional touch to the constitutional proceeding.
The Symbolic Gesture That Made History
What made this transition particularly memorable was Justice Gavai's thoughtful gesture. The former CJI, who superannuated on November 23, arrived at Rashtrapati Bhavan in the official car but made a conscious decision to leave it for his successor after the ceremony.
"After the oath ceremony, Justice Gavai left the official vehicle designated for the chief justice and returned in an alternative vehicle from the Rashtrapati Bhavan, ensuring that the official car is available for use by his successor for going to the Supreme Court," revealed a person familiar with the development to PTI.
This act of institutional courtesy establishes a new precedent for smooth transitions within the highest echelons of the Indian judiciary.
International Presence and Emotional Moments
The ceremony attracted significant international attention, with judicial delegations from multiple countries attending the historic event. Distinguished guests included:
- Bhutan's Chief Justice Lyonpo Norbu Tshering
- Kenya's Chief Justice Martha Koome
- Malaysia's Justice Tan Sri Datuk Nallini Pathmanathan
- Mauritius' Chief Justice Bibi Rehana Mungly-Gulbul
- Nepal's Chief Justice Prakash Man Singh Raut
- Sri Lanka's Chief Justice P Padman Suresena
Adding a personal and emotional dimension to the formal proceedings, Justice Surya Kant touched the feet of his elder family members soon after taking the oath, demonstrating his respect for tradition and family values.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his congratulations to the new CJI through a post on social media platform X, stating: "Attended the oath taking ceremony of Justice Surya Kant as the Chief Justice of India. Best wishes to him for his tenure ahead."
The Journey to India's Highest Judicial Office
Justice Surya Kant's appointment as CJI was announced on October 30, culminating a remarkable journey that began in Hisar, Haryana, where he was born on February 10, 1962. His progression from a small-town legal practitioner to the country's top judicial position reflects decades of dedicated service to the legal profession.
Before assuming the role of Chief Justice of India, he served as Chief Justice of the Himachal Pradesh High Court and delivered several landmark judgments during his tenure at the Punjab and Haryana High Court. His extensive experience across different judicial roles positions him well to lead the Indian judiciary through the challenges ahead.
The seamless transition between the two Chief Justices, marked by Justice Gavai's gracious gesture with the official vehicle, sets a positive tone for institutional continuity and mutual respect within India's judicial system.
