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Supreme Court Regains Full Strength with Two Judges

Why in the News?

Chief Justice of India B.R. Gavai administered the oath of office to Justice Alok Aradhe and Justice Vipul M. Pancholi as judges of the Supreme Court. With this, the apex court has regained its sanctioned strength of 34 judges, including the CJI.

Recent Appointments – Justice Aradhe & Justice Pancholi

Justice Alok Aradhe

  • Born April 1964, parent HC: Madhya Pradesh.
  • Appointed Additional Judge, MP High Court (2009) → Permanent Judge (2011).
  • Currently serving as Chief Justice of Bombay High Court (appointed January 2024).
  • Ranked 3rd among HC Chief Justices.

Justice Vipul M. Pancholi

  • Born May 1968, parent HC: Gujarat.
  • Permanent Judge of Gujarat High Court (2016).
  • Transferred to Patna High Court (July 2023) → Appointed Chief Justice (July 2023).
  • Ranked 19th among HC Chief Justices.
  • In line to become Chief Justice of India (2031–2033).

Collegium Decision & Controversy:

  • The Collegium (August 25, 2024) recommended Aradhe & Pancholi’s elevation by a 4:1 majority.
  • Justice B.V. Nagarathna dissented, highlighting:
    • Justice Pancholi’s low seniority (57th among HC judges).
    • Presence of more meritorious senior judges overlooked.
    • Warned appointment could be “counter-productive to justice administration” and affect Collegium’s credibility.
  • Despite dissent, the Government notified appointments within 48 hours (August 27, 2024).
  • With these appointments, the SC will remain at full strength (34 judges) until CJI Gavai retires on November 23, 2024.

Key Facts : Supreme Court

Constitutional Provisions:
– Established under Article 124 of the Indian Constitution.
– Functions as the guardian of the Constitution and protector of Fundamental Rights.
Strength of Judges:
– Initially 8 judges in 1950.
– Currently, the sanctioned strength is 34 judges (including CJI).
– Appointments are made under Article 124(2) by the President on the recommendation of the Collegium.
Collegium System:
– Comprises the CJI and four senior-most judges of the SC.
– Responsible for recommending appointments and transfers of judges to the Supreme Court and High Courts.