Chief Justice of India (CJI) B.R. Gavai recently shared a heartfelt account of the support he received from Justice Abhay Oka during his elevation to the Supreme Court. Speaking at a felicitation event organized by the Bar Council of Maharashtra & Goa, CJI Gavai acknowledged Justice Oka as a senior and close friend who guided him through a crucial phase of his career.
"Justice Oka, who is my senior and a close friend, explained to me that there were already three judges in the Supreme Court from the Bombay High Court quota. He told me, 'I'll be happy if you make it to the Supreme Court...and eventually become the Chief Justice of India. I have no objection.' I'm grateful for the support he extended to me at that time," CJI Gavai recalled.
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The event also witnessed the release of two books – one highlighting 50 notable judgments authored by CJI Gavai, launched by Justices Surya Kant, Abhay Oka, and Dipankar Datta, and another celebrating his contributions to the judiciary, unveiled by his mother, Kamaltai Gavai.
Justice Oka, while speaking in Marathi, expressed his pride in CJI Gavai’s journey, stating, "We have got a CJI who is known for following and upholding the ethos of the Constitution of India. The start of his tenure is full of assurance." He further added that by the time CJI Gavai demits office in November, the glory of the Supreme Court would be restored.
CJI Gavai also expressed his gratitude to his parents and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s ideology, which shaped his values. He emphasized that his upbringing in a joint family taught him inclusiveness and a deep understanding of social issues.
"Whatever I am today, is because of Dr. BR Ambedkar's ideology and also because of the 'sanskar' I got from my parents," he said, acknowledging his father, Dadasaheb Gavai, for his influence.
Reflecting on his journey, CJI Gavai explained how he consulted Justice Oka when his name was being considered for elevation in 2019. Despite knowing that there were already three judges from the Bombay High Court in the Supreme Court, Justice Oka encouraged him to pursue the position without hesitation.
Concluding his speech, CJI Gavai highlighted the importance of mutual respect among constitutional institutions, stating, "Every organ of the Constitution must reciprocate and give respect to the other organ of the Constitution."
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