CJI Gavai Expresses Disappointment Over Absence Of Top Officials At Felicitation Event in Maharashtra
CJI Gavai’s Maharashtra Visit Takes A Turn
Chief Justice of India (CJI) B R Gavai’s first visit to his home state of Maharashtra since taking on the top judicial role in May sparked a bit of controversy. While Gavai was welcomed by the Bar Council of Maharashtra and Goa, he expressed disappointment over the absence of key state officials, including the Chief Secretary, Director General of Police, and Mumbai Police Commissioner, at a felicitation event held in his honour.
‘Respect For All Three Pillars’
Addressing the gathering in Mumbai, CJI Gavai emphasized the importance of mutual respect between the three pillars of democracy – the judiciary, legislature, and executive. He pointed out that while he wasn’t particularly concerned with protocol, the absence of these top officials sent a message. ‘If the head of an institution is coming to the state for the first time and he is from the state itself, whether their conduct was proper, is something they should think about,’ he stated.
Later, these officials were present when CJI Gavai visited Chaitya Bhoomi to pay his respects to Dr B R Ambedkar.
A ‘Small Issue’ With a Larger Message
While describing the situation as a ‘small issue,’ Gavai stressed that he raised it to highlight the importance of respect between the branches of government. He contrasted this experience with his recent visits to other states, where similar officials had been present to welcome him.
CJI Gavai Reflects on His Journey and the Constitution
CJI Gavai’s speech wasn’t solely about protocol. He also spoke about his journey from a humble beginning in Amravati to becoming the head of the Indian judiciary. He acknowledged the influence of Dr Ambedkar’s principles and the values instilled in him by his parents.
He delved into his legal career, recalling his days as a government pleader in Nagpur and the landmark cases he’d been involved in. The event was also attended by several Supreme Court and High Court judges, marking a significant gathering of legal minds in Maharashtra.
