Supreme Court returns to full strength with appointment of two new judges
The Supreme Court of India has regained its full sanctioned strength of 34 judges with the swearing-in of Justices Alok Aradhe and Vipul M. Pancholi. Chief Justice B.R. Gavai administered the oath. Justice Pancholi is slated to become Chief Justice of India in 2031. Their appointment process saw a rare dissent from Justice B.V. Nagarathna, who questioned Justice Pancholi's seniority ranking and suggested other meritorious judges could be considered. Despite this, the Collegium recommended the appointments by a 4:1 majority, which were subsequently notified within 48 hours.
Key Points
- The Supreme Court of India has reached its full sanctioned strength of 34 judges.
- Justices Alok Aradhe and Vipul M. Pancholi were sworn in by Chief Justice B.R. Gavai.
- Justice Vipul M. Pancholi is in line to become the Chief Justice of India in 2031.
- The Collegium's recommendation for these appointments was made by a 4:1 majority.
- Justice B.V. Nagarathna recorded a dissent regarding Justice Pancholi's seniority, citing his ranking and other senior judges.
Exam Facts
- The Supreme Court's full sanctioned strength is 34 judges.
- Justices Alok Aradhe and Vipul M. Pancholi were sworn in.
- Justice Vipul M. Pancholi is in line to become CJI from October 3, 2031, till May 27, 2033.
- Justice B.V. Nagarathna dissented from the Collegium's recommendation.
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