Justice Joymalya Bagchi officially took the oath as a judge of the Supreme Court on Monday. The oath was administered by Chief Justice of India, Sanjiv Khanna, in a full-court ceremony held at the first court.

The Union Government had approved his elevation on March 10, following a recommendation from the Supreme Court Collegium on March 6. Justice Bagchi, who was previously serving as a judge in the Calcutta High Court, was chosen for the Supreme Court in recognition of his judicial expertise and experience.

"After the retirement of Mr. Justice Altamas Kabir on July 18, 2013, as Chief Justice of India, there has not been any Chief Justice of India from the High Court at Calcutta."

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This appointment is significant as Justice Bagchi is now in line to become the Chief Justice of India (CJI) after the retirement of Justice K.V. Viswanathan on May 25, 2031. If he assumes the role, he will serve as the CJI until October 2, 2031, ensuring a tenure of more than six years before taking the top position.

The Supreme Court Collegium also considered the fact that currently, only one judge from the Calcutta High Court is serving in the Supreme Court. Justice Bagchi's seniority further strengthened his case, as he holds the 11th position in the combined all-India seniority list of High Court Judges, including Chief Justices.

With his appointment, the Supreme Court still has one remaining vacancy out of its full strength of 34 judges. His elevation brings balance and representation to the highest judicial body in the country, ensuring a diverse and experienced bench for future landmark rulings.