New Delhi: In a major judicial development, the Supreme Court collegium has recommended the elevation of Justice Alok Aradhe, Chief Justice of the Bombay High Court, and Justice Vipul Manubhai Pancholi, Chief Justice of the Patna High Court, to the Supreme Court of India.
This move comes as the apex court currently faces two vacancies, and if approved by the Centre, the Supreme Court will once again have its full sanctioned strength of 34 judges.
Justice Vipul Pancholi in Line to Become CJI in 2031
Notably, if the Centre approves Justice Pancholi’s elevation, he is set to succeed Justice Joymalya Bagchi as the Chief Justice of India on October 3, 2031, and will serve in the top judicial post until May 27, 2033. His elevation would thus not only address the court’s current vacancy but also secure a future leadership transition.
Justice Aradhe and Pancholi: Reputed Judicial Figures
Justice Alok Aradhe, currently heading the Bombay High Court, is recognized for his deep legal acumen and judicial temperament. Similarly, Justice Pancholi, who helms the Patna High Court, is widely respected for his balanced judgments and efficiency.
Their elevation is expected to further strengthen the judicial decision-making at the highest level, especially as the court handles a complex and high-volume caseload.
Collegium Meeting and Deliberations
The Supreme Court collegium met under the chairmanship of Chief Justice of India B R Gavai. Other members of the collegium included Justices Surya Kant, Vikram Nath, J K Maheshwari, and B V Nagarathna.
The recommendations now await the final nod from the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet, following which the President of India will formally appoint the judges.
