During his felicitation event in Amravati, his hometown, CJI B R Gavai spoke about the importance of the Constitution after becoming the 52nd Chief Justice of India: “Constitution of India is supreme, all three wings of democracy work under it.”
Chief Justice of India B R Gavai emphasized the supremacy of the Constitution of India, stating that all three branches of democracy operate under its framework.
Referring to the Supreme Court’s judgment on the ‘Basic Structure’ doctrine, he highlighted that while Parliament has the authority to amend the Constitution, it cannot alter its fundamental structure.
Justice Gavai, who became the 52nd Chief Justice of India last month, was speaking during a felicitation event held in Amravati city, his hometown in eastern Maharashtra.
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Justice Gavai expressed his belief that, contrary to the view that Parliament is supreme, the Constitution holds the highest authority. He remarked that there is ongoing debate regarding the supremacy of the executive, legislature, or judiciary.
He stated,
“While many say and believe that Parliament is supreme, according to me, it is the Constitution of India that is supreme. All three wings of the democracy work under the Constitution,”
He also noted that a judge’s independence is not solely determined by issuing orders against the government.
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He added,
“A judge should always remember that we have a duty, and we are custodians of the rights of citizens and constitutional values and principles. We don’t just have power, but a duty is cast upon us,”
The Chief Justice of India stated that judges should not be influenced by public opinion regarding their rulings.
He emphasized,
“We have to think independently. What people will say cannot become a part of our decision-making process,”
He affirmed that he allows his judgments and actions to speak for themselves, consistently upholding the fundamental rights outlined in the Constitution.
Discussing his ruling against “bulldozer justice,” he highlighted that the right to shelter is paramount.
Also Read: CJI Gavai Vows to Uphold Constitution and Rule of Law During His Tenure
CJI Gavai also shared memories from his childhood, expressing that although he aspired to be an architect, his father hoped he would pursue a career in law.
He recounted,
“My father had wanted to become a lawyer but was unable to become one, as at the time he was arrested for being part of the freedom movement,”
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