Chief Justice of India Bhushan Ramkrishna Gavai, during a felicitation ceremony at the Maharashtra Legislature on Tuesday, reiterated Dr B R Ambedkar’s enduring principles of constitutional supremacy and the judiciary’s independence from executive influence.
Addressing both Houses upon his elevation to the apex judicial position, Chief Justice Gavai invoked Dr Ambedkar’s belief that “we all believe in the supremacy of the Constitution which will keep the country united during peace and war.” He stressed that the Constitution vests authority equally in the Executive, Legislature, and Judiciary, with the judiciary serving as a “watchdog and custodian of citizens’ rights.” He reiterated Ambedkar’s stance that the judiciary “should be free from executive interference,” reinforcing the judiciary’s role as a barrier against power misuse.
Highlighting the Constitution’s dynamic nature, the CJI quoted Ambedkar’s assertion that it cannot remain static; rather, it “has to be organic and keep evolving,” reflecting the nation’s changing needs.
Chief Justice Gavai’s address came shortly after both the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly and Council formally congratulated him on his appointment. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis also personally felicitated him on behalf of the legislature.
