Chief Justice of India
Context: Chief Justice of India-designate Justice B R Gavai reiterated that it is the Constitution that is supreme and all organs of state are supposed to work within its parameters.
Important Pointers:
Chief Justice of India (CJI): Head of the judiciary system and the Supreme Court, the highest judicial forum and final court of appeal in India.
Appointment: Appointed by the President of India under Article 124(2) of the Constitution, traditionally based on seniority among Supreme Court judges.
Tenure and Removal:
No fixed term; retires at the age of 65 (Article 124).
Can be removed by the President through a process of impeachment by Parliament for proven misbehavior or incapacity (Article 124(4), Judges Inquiry Act, 1968).
Powers & Functions:
Allocates cases and benches in the Supreme Court.
Plays a key role in the appointment and transfer of judges (via Collegium system).
Advises the President under Article 143 (Advisory Jurisdiction).
Significance:
Heads the Collegium, which influences appointments to the higher judiciary.
Administers the oath of office to the President (in the absence of the Vice President).