CJI Gavai Regrets No Woman Was Elevated to Supreme Court
At his farewell event on November 18, outgoing Chief Justice of India B. R. Gavai openly stated his disappointment that no woman judge was elevated to the Supreme Court of India while he held office. He noted that although his collegium had recommended several women jurists, the elevation did not occur during his tenure.
Tenure Details and Elevations
During Gavai’s tenure as CJI (from May 14 to November 23, 2025), five judges were appointed to the Supreme Court, all of whom were men. He highlighted his role in recommending women for High Court positions—reportedly 16 women judges across several high courts—but acknowledged the absence of any woman’s elevation to the apex court.
Comment on Judiciary and Gender Representation
Justice Gavai said he was “glad” that a woman judge, B. V. Nagarathna, is in line to become the first woman Chief Justice of India in the future, but added that the failure to elevate a woman to the Supreme Court during his own term remains a regret. He emphasised that improving gender diversity in the higher judiciary remains a key challenge.
Implications for Judicial Appointments
His remarks bring renewed focus to the pace and process of women’s elevation in India’s highest courts. Observers note that while progress has been made in high courts, the top tier of the judiciary continues to lack proportional representation of women. The statement may add pressure on the collegium and government to prioritise inclusivity in future appointments.
