In a significant development, former Bombay High Court Chief Justice Alok Aradhe and former Patna High Court Chief Justice Vipul M Pancholi were sworn in as judges of the Supreme Court on Friday (August 29, 2025). Chief Justice of India B R Gavai administered the oath of office to both judges. With their appointment, the Supreme Court has reached its full sanctioned strength of 34 judges, leaving no vacancies.
Collegium Recommendation and Centre’s Approval
The Supreme Court Collegium, led by CJI Gavai, recommended their elevation on August 25, 2025. The Centre cleared the appointments on Wednesday (August 27), paving the way for their swearing-in ceremony.
Justice Alok Aradhe: Career Highlights
Born: Raipur
Enrolled as Advocate: July 12, 1988
Judicial Career: Appointed Additional Judge, Madhya Pradesh High Court (Dec 2009); Permanent Judge (Feb 2011)
Transfers & Roles:
- Jammu & Kashmir High Court (2016); Acting Chief Justice (2018)
- Karnataka High Court (2018); Acting Chief Justice (July 2022)
- Chief Justice, Telangana High Court (July 2023)
- Chief Justice, Bombay High Court (Jan 2025
Justice Vipul M Pancholi: Career Highlights
Born: Gujarat
Enrolled as Advocate: September 1991; served as Assistant Government Pleader & Additional Public Prosecutor (1999–2006)
Judicial Career: Appointed Additional Judge, Gujarat High Court (Oct 2014); Permanent Judge (June 2016)
Transfers & Roles:
- Patna High Court (July 2023)
- Chief Justice, Patna High Court (July 21, 2025)
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