Justice BR Gavai, who is set to assume the role of Chief Justice of India on May 14, offered heartfelt praise for former CJI NV Ramana, commending his efforts to bridge the gap between the judiciary and the public.
Breaking Barriers Between Bench & Public
A Judge states, a collection of speeches by Justice Ramana, Justice Gavai highlighted Ramana’s commitment to making the judiciary more accessible. “I think he must be one of the first Chief Justices of India who had broken that ice of the judges being isolated from the public,” he said.
Justice Gavai described Ramana as someone who truly believed in engaging with the people and stepping beyond the traditional bounds of judicial aloofness. “He believed in going to the people. He believed in meeting the people. I think he was truly the people’s Chief Justice of India,” he added.
Rural Origins & Legal Journeys
Justice Gavai, who will succeed Justice Sanjiv Khanna following his retirement on May 13, pointed out a unique connection he shares with Justices Ramana and Surya Kant. “All 3 of us are coming from a rural background. All three of us belong to agricultural families, and all three of us are first-generation lawyers,” he said, underlining a shared journey of humble beginnings and professional accomplishment.
Champion Of Diversity & Inclusion
Lauding Justice Ramana’s progressive outlook, Justice Gavai recalled a landmark moment during Ramana’s tenure—the simultaneous swearing-in of nine judges to the Supreme Court in 2021. He called it a reflection of Ramana’s commitment to diversity and inclusion within the judiciary.
Among the nine was Justice BV Nagarathna, who is in line to become the first woman Chief Justice of India. Gavai noted this as a historic milestone that spoke volumes about Ramana’s foresight.
Reflecting on Ramana’s personal qualities, Justice Gavai described him as “a true human being, very loving and caring, a man full of humanity, empathy, sympathy, and compassion.” He added that these values shine through not only in Ramana’s judgments but also in his speeches, many of which are compiled in the newly released book.
Justice Gavai’s tribute to Justice Ramana paints a portrait of a jurist who, beyond legal excellence, prioritized empathy and inclusivity, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire the judiciary and public alike.
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