Chief Justice of India (CJI), Bhushan Gavai, made headlines on Friday, July 25, 2025, by publicly announcing that he will not accept any government position or post-retirement role of benefit after concluding his term in office. His declaration comes as a strong ethical stance amidst rising debates over the post-retirement roles of judges and their impact on judicial independence.

Speaking during his first visit to his native village of Darapur in Maharashtra since becoming the Chief Justice, CJI Gavai received a warm welcome from villagers and supporters. Overcome with emotion, he reminisced about his childhood, visiting his old home and recalling memories from his early years. The visit was marked by personal reflection and a public assertion of judicial principles.

“I have decided that I will not accept any government position after my retirement... I will get more time after retirement, so I will try to spend more time in Darapur, Amravati, and Nagpur,” he told the gathering.

This statement is not just a personal choice but also an expression of ethical commitment to maintaining the public’s trust in the judiciary. It comes in the wake of public criticism faced by some of his predecessors and colleagues who took up government or political roles soon after leaving the Bench.

Public Ethical Stand Taken in UK Earlier

Earlier this year, CJI Gavai had made similar remarks at a round table conference in the United Kingdom Supreme Court, where he addressed the issue of judicial credibility and ethical perception. He stated:

“If a judge takes up another appointment with the government immediately after retirement, or resigns from the Bench to contest elections, it raises significant ethical concerns and invites public scrutiny. The timing and nature of such engagements could undermine public trust in the judiciary.”

He emphasized that such appointments could create the perception that judicial rulings were motivated by prospects of future rewards, thus damaging the integrity and impartiality of the institution.

Context: Judges Who Took Up Government or Political Roles

The discussion over post-retirement employment of judges has intensified in recent years due to controversial appointments. One of the most notable examples is former Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi, who was nominated to the Rajya Sabha just four months after his retirement in 2019. His acceptance of a parliamentary seat raised eyebrows and prompted debates over the independence of judicial functioning.

Similarly, Abhijit Gangopadhyay, a former Calcutta High Court judge, stepped down from his position and joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). He contested and won the Lok Sabha election from the Tamluk constituency. These moves have sparked debates regarding the need for a cooling-off period and legislative safeguards to preserve the judiciary's integrity.

CJI Gavai’s Decision—A Move Towards Judicial Reform?

By refusing government roles after retirement, CJI Gavai has taken a stand that aligns with the long-standing demand for ethical boundaries and institutional sanctity within the Indian judicial system. His decision could set a precedent for future judges to resist political or administrative appointments, thereby safeguarding judicial impartiality.

His move also supports the notion of judicial reform, where the focus remains on public accountability, transparency, and trust-building rather than post-service rewards or political patronage.

Life After Retirement: Back to Roots

CJI Gavai has made it clear that his retirement plans include spending time away from public office and returning to his roots. His statement about wanting to be closer to Darapur, Amravati, and Nagpur reflects a deeply personal desire to reconnect with his upbringing and live a more grounded, reflective life post-retirement.

He has not specified any involvement in academia, private practice, or arbitration, which are often avenues pursued by retired judges. Instead, his focus on personal life and community signals a departure from the power corridors of Delhi to the simplicity of village life.

Implications on Judicial Culture and Ethics

CJI Gavai's announcement could have far-reaching implications on the post-retirement culture among Indian judges. It revives the conversation on the need for institutional checks, such as:

• Mandatory cooling-off periods

• Banning direct government appointments for a set duration

• Establishing independent ethics oversight committees

His public commitment may also push civil society, the Bar, and even Parliament to codify ethical practices in judicial service rules.

Conclusion: A Personal and Institutional Statement

In summary, CJI Bhushan Gavai’s declaration to abstain from any government role post-retirement is not merely symbolic. It is a powerful institutional message that underscores the importance of maintaining the independence and credibility of the judiciary. By combining personal reflection with public responsibility, he has potentially set a new ethical benchmark for those who occupy the highest positions in India’s judicial framework.

His intent to spend his time in Darapur, Amravati, and Nagpur, away from the glare of national power, highlights his desire to lead a life of meaningful simplicity and introspection—a choice that may redefine how the judiciary is perceived in the years to come.

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