Chief Justice of India Bhushan Ramkrishna Gavai on Saturday underscored the need for a pragmatic interpretation of laws and the Constitution, asserting that judicial reasoning must evolve in step with the challenges and expectations of contemporary society.
Speaking at a felicitation ceremony hosted in his honour by the Bombay High Court, CJI Gavai said, “Interpretation has to be pragmatic. It has to be one that suits the needs of society.” Citing a past Supreme Court decision, he emphasised that legal texts should be understood in the context of the problems faced by the present generation.
In his address, the Chief Justice also made an impassioned appeal to the judiciary to uphold the dignity of the institution, noting that he had “recently received a lot of complaints about the rude behaviour of some of the colleagues.” Stressing that judicial office is not merely a job but a service to the nation, he urged judges to remain true to their oath and avoid any conduct that could tarnish the judiciary’s reputation.
“Please do not do anything which brings disrepute to this august institution, whose reputation has been so laboriously built by the devotion and dedication of generations of lawyers and generations of judges,” he said.
CJI Gavai also reflected on the significance of impartiality and independence in judicial appointments. Reaffirming the role of the collegium system, he stated, “At no cost shall the independence of the judiciary be compromised.” He added that merit, diversity, and inclusiveness are the guiding principles in making appointments to the Supreme Court and High Courts.
Speaking fondly of the Bombay High Court, where he served both as a lawyer and a judge, he said he takes pride in the court’s work and the esteem in which it is held nationwide.
He also offered words of wisdom on judicial temperament, advising judges to detach themselves emotionally from cases once a verdict is delivered. “Judges should act as per their conscience, oath, and the law, and should never be perturbed once the matter is decided,” he said.
The event was attended by judges, members of the bar, and legal dignitaries who gathered to honour the CJI’s journey and contributions to the judiciary.
