On Thursday, the government commenced the procedure to appoint the next Chief Justice of India, as the current Chief Justice B R Gavai is set to retire on November 23, according to sources. A letter requesting Justice Gavai to propose his successor is expected to be delivered either later today or on Friday, as informed by individuals familiar with the appointment process for Supreme Court and high court judges. The memorandum of procedure, which outlines the guidelines for the appointment, transfer, and elevation of judges in the Supreme Court and High Courts, stipulates that the Chief Justice of India should be appointed from the most senior judge of the Supreme Court who is deemed suitable for the position.
At the appropriate time, the Union law minister will request the outgoing Chief Justice of India to recommend a successor. Traditionally, this letter is sent one month prior to the retirement of the incumbent Chief Justice upon reaching the age of 65. Justice Surya Kant, being the senior-most judge after the current Chief Justice, is next in line to lead the Indian judiciary. Upon his appointment, Justice Surya Kant will assume the role of Chief Justice on November 24 and is expected to serve for approximately 15 months until February 9, 2027.