“Trivial Issue Should Not Be Blown Out Of Proportion”: CJI B R Gavai On ‘Protocol Issues’ During Maharashtra Visit

CJI B R Gavai

Chief Justice of India B. R. Gavai on Tuesday appealed for an end to the “trivial” controversy over protocol lapses during his recent visit to Maharashtra, urging that the issue be laid to rest.

“Not to Be Blown Out of Proportion”

In an official statement, the Supreme Court clarified that all involved had already expressed their apologies. The release quoted the CJI as saying:

“A trivial issue should not be blown out of proportion. I request everyone to give this matter a quietus.”

The statement underscored that media reports about skipped courtesies on his home-state visit had already been addressed by those concerned.

Disappointment At Felicitation Event

During his first trip to Maharashtra after assuming office, Justice Gavai presided over a felicitation organized by the Bar Council of Maharashtra and Goa in Mumbai on May 18. He noted with regret that top state officials—namely the Chief Secretary, Director General of Police, and Mumbai’s Police Commissioner—were absent from the ceremony.

“We speak of three equal pillars of democracy—the judiciary, the legislature, and the executive—and each must honor the other,” he remarked. “For a Maharashtrian to become Chief Justice of India for the first time and not see state dignitaries present is something they must reflect upon.”

Vice President’s Support

At a book launch the previous evening, Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar defended the CJI’s comments as a defense of the office, not personal pride. He said:

“Protocol for the Chief Justice of India is paramount. This was not about an individual but about respecting the position.”

Dhankhar added that highlighting the protocol’s importance was both necessary and overdue.

Regrets & Reconciliation

Following the CJI’s remarks, Chief Secretary Sujata Saunik, DGP Rashmi Shukla, and Mumbai Police Commissioner P. Deven Bharti met Justice Gavai at Chaitya Bhoomi, where he paid tribute to Dr. B. R. Ambedkar. They conveyed their remorse in person and later accompanied him to the airport, signaling a smooth resolution.

By downplaying the episode as minor, Justice Gavai has encouraged all parties to move forward, reinforcing the need for mutual respect among constitutional authorities.

Press-Note-20.05.2025-2.pdf

(Inputs By Sambhav Sharma)