Chief Justice of India (CJI) BR Gavai recently expressed his dissatisfaction over the absence of Maharashtra's top officials, including the Chief Secretary, Director General of Police (DGP), and the Mumbai Police Commissioner, during his first visit to his home state after being appointed as the CJI.
CJI Gavai made these remarks during a felicitation ceremony organized by the Bar Council of Maharashtra and Goa in Mumbai, where he was honored for his appointment as the Chief Justice of India.
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Although CJI Gavai clarified that he generally does not believe in rigid "protocols," he emphasized the importance of mutual respect among the various constitutional bodies.
"Every organ of the Constitution must reciprocate and give respect to the other organ of the Constitution." — CJI BR Gavai
During his speech, CJI Gavai pointed out that when a person from the state is elevated to a significant constitutional position like the CJI, it is expected that the state's top officials would show respect and acknowledgment.
He specifically highlighted his disappointment by stating:
"When the son of this State, who has become the CJI, comes to Maharashtra for the first time, if the State's Chief Secretary, Commissioner of Police, etc., do not want to attend the event, that is best left on their wisdom." — CJI BR Gavai
While concluding his remarks, CJI Gavai stated that he did not wish to dwell on minor issues but felt it was necessary to point out the matter.
"I do not want to focus on all these small issues but just wanted to point this out." — CJI BR Gavai
The absence of Maharashtra’s senior officials during such a significant occasion has sparked discussions on protocol, respect, and the recognition of constitutional positions.
