Sun May 11 20:30:00 UTC 2025: ## Incoming Chief Justice Vows to Crack Down on Court Trolls, Addresses Concerns About Judicial Independence
**New Delhi, May 12, 2025** – Justice B.R. Gavai, set to become India’s 52nd Chief Justice on May 14th, has vowed to take a firm stance against online trolls who attack the judiciary. In an interview on Sunday, Justice Gavai declared that there would be “no compromise” when it comes to protecting the court’s dignity from personal attacks and scandalous social media campaigns. He stressed the need for executive support in tackling this issue. His appointment marks a historic moment, as he will be the first Buddhist Chief Justice of India.
Justice Gavai also addressed recent controversies, including derogatory comments made by BJP MP Nishikant Dubey against the Supreme Court and Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna. While acknowledging the comments were contemptuous, he noted that reactions to such incidents vary. He strongly refuted criticism of the Supreme Court’s use of Article 142 of the Constitution, calling such accusations “unwarranted.” He also emphasized the importance of restraint among High Court judges, advocating for periodic training to improve judicial conduct and stressing the need for judges to avoid commenting on sub judice matters.
The incoming Chief Justice commented on the recent publication of Supreme Court judges’ assets online, acknowledging some judges’ concerns about potential misuse of the information. He expressed a positive view of the National Judicial Appointments Commission (NJAC) with necessary adjustments and affirmed that the Supreme Court Collegium consistently involves the government in its recommendations. He denied experiencing any external pressure on judicial decisions. Justice Gavai also revealed that the Collegium will soon address the underrepresentation of women on the Supreme Court bench following the upcoming retirement of Justice Bela M. Trivedi.
Looking ahead, Justice Gavai stated he will not accept any post-retirement appointments. He also discussed the recent Pahalgam terror attack, emphasizing the judiciary’s solidarity with the nation during times of crisis. He concluded by highlighting the Supreme Court’s tribute to the victims through a moment of silence.
First Piper 