CJI Gavai: Constitution is Supreme, Judiciary, Parliament, and Executive Must Work Together

CJI Gavai Clarifies Constitution’s Supremecy

Amidst ongoing debate about the power dynamics between the judiciary and the legislature, Chief Justice of India (CJI) Bhushan Gavai made it clear that the Constitution of India stands supreme. Speaking at a felicitation event in Mumbai hosted by the Bar Council of Maharashtra and Goa, CJI Gavai stated, “On being asked about the issue of who is supreme, whether Judiciary or Executive or the Parliament? I can say that the Constitution of India is the only supreme and all the three pillars of the country – Judiciary, Parliament and also the Executive, have to work together for the Constitution.”

Addressing Recent Tensions

CJI Gavai’s remarks appear to be a direct response to recent tensions between the judiciary and the executive branch. Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, following the Supreme Court’s setting of timelines for the President and Governor to act on Bills, had criticized the judiciary, suggesting it was encroaching on the powers of Parliament. He had asserted that “Parliament is supreme” and that the Constitution does not envision any authority above Parliament.

Precedence in Judicial Philosophy

CJI Gavai’s predecessor