New Delhi, November 24, 2025 – In a rare display of institutional courtesy and seamless transition, former Chief Justice of India (CJI) B.R. Gavai made headlines on Monday by relinquishing the official Mercedes-Benz vehicle assigned to the top judicial office, ensuring his successor, Justice Surya Kant, could access it without delay during the swearing-in ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan.
The 52nd CJI, Justice Gavai, who retired on November 23 after a tenure marked by landmark judgments on social justice and constitutional matters, arrived at the presidential residence in the sleek black Mercedes-Benz – the hallmark of the CJI's convoy – for Justice Kant's oath-taking. However, in a move that observers described as "classy" and precedent-setting, he departed the venue in a personal vehicle, leaving the official car behind for the newly minted 53rd CJI.
This gesture underscores the unspoken ethos of continuity in India's apex judiciary, where the transfer of symbols of authority like the official car – complete with its distinctive red beacon and security escort – traditionally involves logistical handovers that can sometimes lag by hours or days. By opting for his private conveyance, Justice Gavai ensured that Justice Kant, who took oath in the presence of President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, could proceed to the Supreme Court premises in the full regalia of the CJI's office immediately after the ceremony.
Legal experts hailed the act as a "Mercedes-class gesture," reflecting Justice Gavai's commitment to a smooth handover amid the judiciary's ongoing challenges, including case backlogs and calls for reforms. "In the high-stakes world of judicial transitions, such small acts speak volumes about respect for the institution," said senior advocate and constitutional expert, Kapil Sibal, commenting on the development. The Supreme Court Registrar General confirmed the seamless logistics but refrained from elaborating on internal protocols.
Justice Kant, a Delhi High Court veteran elevated to the Supreme Court in 2019, assumes the CJI role for a tenure expected to extend until 2028. His appointment follows the established seniority principle, with Gavai's retirement paving the way for Kant's ascension. The new CJI has already signaled priorities on technology integration in courts and addressing pendency issues.
This incident adds to Justice Gavai's legacy of humility; during his term, he was known for advocating marginalized voices in cases involving Scheduled Castes and Tribes. As he bids adieu to public life, his final act serves as a reminder that true leadership often lies in the quiet facilitation of the next chapter.
The event unfolded against the backdrop of a subdued yet dignified ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan, attended by the who's who of the legal fraternity. No official statement from the Supreme Court on the car handover was issued, but sources close to the matter described it as an "unwritten tradition elevated to practice."
As Justice Kant steps into the corridors of power – now with wheels to match – the judiciary gears up for another era of adjudication under his stewardship.
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