Vice President of India, Jagdeep Dhankhar, extended strong support to Chief Justice of India (CJI) BR Gavai, following a protocol lapse during the latter’s recent visit to Maharashtra.
During a felicitation event organized by the Bar Council of Maharashtra and Goa in Mumbai, CJI Gavai expressed disappointment that senior state officials, including the Chief Secretary, Director General of Police (DGP), and Mumbai Police Commissioner, failed to receive him on his first official visit to his home state after assuming the top judicial post.
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“Every organ of the Constitution must reciprocate and give respect to the other organ of the Constitution,”
— CJI BR Gavai
He clarified that while he generally does not insist on protocol, such lack of acknowledgment reflects poorly when the highest authority in the judiciary visits the state.
“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
In response, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar echoed the CJI's sentiments and emphasized the critical role of adhering to protocol within the constitutional framework.
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"I am beholden to the present Chief Justice for inviting attention to people in bureaucracy that adherence to protocol is fundamental,"
— Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar
He noted that protocol must not be seen as personal privilege but as a recognition of the institution one represents. Dhankhar also pointed out that he himself had experienced protocol-related issues.
“In a sense, I am also a sufferer; you have seen the photograph of the President and Prime Minister, but not of the Vice-President. Once I demit office, I’ll ensure that my successor has a photograph.”
— Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar
The event has reignited discussions on bureaucratic accountability and the respect owed to constitutional authorities, irrespective of personal preferences or political dynamics.
