In his first visit to Mumbai after assuming the office of Chief Justice of India, Justice B.R. Gavai was met with both overwhelming affection from the legal fraternity and a notable absence of protocol from key state officials. His emotional response and remarks on institutional respect, judicial empathy, and constitutional supremacy marked a deeply significant moment for India’s judiciary.
A Welcome Overlooked: Absence of Protocol Sparks Disquiet
When Justice B.R. Gavai, India’s 51st Chief Justice, returned to his home state for the first time since assuming office on May 14, the stage was set for a warm homecoming. However, what was expected to be a moment of pride for Maharashtra turned awkward when top state officials—including the Chief Secretary, Director General of Police, and Mumbai Police Commissioner—failed to receive him at the airport.
The absence did not go unnoticed. Speaking at the Maharashtra-Goa Bar Council’s felicitation ceremony, CJI Gavai openly expressed disappointment. While the judiciary is constitutionally independent, the lack of ceremonial courtesy from the executive sent a ripple through the legal and political communities.
Despite the lapse in protocol, the legal fraternity welcomed him with heartfelt warmth. The function was a show of unity and admiration from fellow judges, senior advocates, and young lawyers alike.
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Emotional Resonance: A Justice Moved by Public Affection
Justice Gavai’s speech quickly turned emotional. Standing before his peers and supporters, he appeared visibly moved.
“I am deeply grateful. The love and respect I’ve received is overwhelming. Today’s ceremony is unforgettable.”
Referring to his journey over the past 40 years in law, the Chief Justice reminisced about the unwavering support from people across Maharashtra. He also acknowledged that the public’s desire to attend his swearing-in ceremony on Buddha Purnima had to be curtailed due to limitations in protocol and capacity.
The emotional honesty displayed by Justice Gavai offered a rare glimpse into the human side of India’s top judicial office—a contrast to the typically stoic image associated with the Supreme Court bench.
Constitution Above All: A Call for Mutual Respect Among Pillars of Democracy
The Chief Justice used the occasion to reaffirm the principles of India’s Constitution and the balanced relationship between its three pillars: the judiciary, executive, and legislature.
“No pillar of democracy is supreme,” he declared. “Not the judiciary, not the executive, not the legislature—only the Constitution is supreme.”
He stressed the importance of mutual respect and cooperation among the organs of governance. “All arms must function in harmony and with humility,” he said, warning against ego or dominance within democratic frameworks.
In a separate event organized by the Bar Council of India a day earlier, Justice Gavai emphasized that judges must not lose sight of ground realities. He rejected the idea of judicial aloofness, stating that
“Judges cannot afford to view legal matters in black and white, ignoring the complexities of human experience.”
He further asserted that public engagement does not compromise judicial integrity.
“The notion that Supreme Court judges should avoid connecting with people is misguided,”
he said, calling for a more approachable judiciary.
In an informal interaction with the media, Justice Gavai categorically ruled out any plans to join politics post-retirement—a move often seen in Indian public life. “After holding the office of the Chief Justice of India, one must not assume any political responsibility,” he said, reaffirming his commitment to judicial neutrality.
Conclusion: A Justice Who Listens
Justice B.R. Gavai’s Mumbai visit was as much a personal milestone as it was a statement on the state of institutional relationships in India. The snub by state authorities sparked criticism, but it also offered a platform for the Chief Justice to communicate values of empathy, humility, and constitutional fidelity.