V.M. Pancholi

Early life and education

Justice Vipul Manubhai Pancholi was born on 28 May 1968 in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Electronics from St. Xavier’s College, Ahmedabad. Subsequently, he obtained a Master’s degree in Law from Sir L.A. Shah Law College, Ahmedabad. 

Career as an Advocate 

Justice Pancholi enrolled at the Bar in September 1991 and began practising at the Gujarat High Court. In 1993, he served as a visiting faculty member at Sir L.A. Shah Law College. During his time as an advocate, he contributed to legal scholarship as Honorary Joint Editor of The Gujarat Law Herald for two years. 

During his time at the Gujarat Bar, Justice Pancholi was appointed as the Assistant Government Pleader and the Additional Public Prosecutor at the High Court. He served in this capacity until March 2006. 

Career as a Judge

Justice Pancholi was elevated as an Additional Judge of the Gujarat High Court on 1 October 2014. He was confirmed as a Permanent Judge on 10 June 2016.

On 24 July 2023, Justice Pancholi was transferred to the Patna High Court. Two years later, on 21 July 2025, he assumed office as the Chief Justice of the Patna High Court.

On 25 August 2025, the Supreme Court Collegium, led by Chief Justice B.R. Gavai, recommended Justice Pancholi’s appointment to the Supreme Court. The Union notified his appointment on 27 August. 

His appointment drew controversy after reports that Justice B.V. Nagarathna, a member of the Collegium, disagreed with his recommendation. The reasons for her dissent are not in the public record.

Justice Pancholi will serve a tenure of 7.75 years. If the seniority principle is followed, he is scheduled to become the Chief Justice of India in October 2031 and retire after a 1.5-year tenure in May 2033.