Supreme Court at Full Strength as Justices Alok Aradhe and Vipul Pancholi Take Oath
The Supreme Court of India has reached its full sanctioned strength of 34 judges after Justice Alok Aradhe and Justice Vipul Manubhai Pancholi were sworn in today, August 29, 2025.
The oath-taking ceremony was held at the Supreme Court premises in New Delhi and was administered by Chief Justice of India (CJI) B.R. Gavai. The event was live-streamed on the Supreme Court’s official website.
Background of the Appointments
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On August 25, 2025, the Supreme Court Collegium recommended the elevation of Justice Alok Aradhe and Justice Vipul Pancholi.
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The Central Government approved their appointments on August 27, 2025.
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With their swearing-in, the vacancies in the apex court have been completely filled.
About Justice Alok Aradhe
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Date of Birth: April 13, 1964
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Birthplace: Raipur, Chhattisgarh
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Served as Chief Justice of the Telangana High Court and also at the Bombay High Court.
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Previously worked as a judge in the Karnataka High Court, Jammu & Kashmir High Court, and Madhya Pradesh High Court.
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Known for his expertise in constitutional law and civil matters.
About Justice Vipul Manubhai Pancholi
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Date of Birth: May 28, 1968
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Former Chief Justice of the Patna High Court.
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Earlier served at the Gujarat High Court before being transferred to Patna in July 2023.
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His elevation became a topic of discussion because Justice B.V. Nagarathna, a member of the five-judge Collegium, dissented.
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The dissent was related to his seniority ranking and the circumstances of his transfer.
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Despite the dissent, the Collegium recommended his name by a 4:1 majority.
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If seniority is maintained, Justice Pancholi is expected to become the Chief Justice of India (CJI) in October 2031.
Significance of the Appointment
With the Supreme Court now functioning at its full capacity of 34 judges, it is expected that:
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Case hearings will become faster.
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Pendency of cases will reduce.
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The judiciary will have greater efficiency in handling constitutional and legal matters.
Key Highlights
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Supreme Court reaches its full strength of 34 judges.
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Justice Alok Aradhe and Justice Vipul Pancholi take oath on August 29, 2025.
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Oath administered by CJI B.R. Gavai.
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Appointments approved after Collegium recommendation on August 25, 2025.
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Justice Pancholi may become CJI in October 2031.
Related :
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How the Supreme Court Collegium System Works
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List of All 34 Current Supreme Court Judges – 2025
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