CJI-BR-Gavai
At a landmark ceremony held at the Allahabad High Court, Chief Justice of India (CJI) BR Gavai underscored the enduring strength and unifying spirit of the Constitution of India. The event marked the inauguration of newly constructed Advocates’ Chambers and a multi-level parking facility, designed to modernize the court’s infrastructure and ease daily operations for legal professionals.
The Constitution: A Source of National Unity
Addressing a distinguished audience that included Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Union Minister of State for Law and Justice Arjun Ram Meghwal, and Supreme Court Justices Surya Kant and Vikram Nath, CJI Gavai reflected on the visionary framework of India’s Constitution.
Quoting Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, CJI Gavai emphasized that the Constitution was intentionally crafted to be neither wholly federal nor entirely unitary. “The Constitution ensures that the country remains united,” he said. “India has withstood various challenges over the years, and the Constitution has played a key role in our resilience.”
The Role of Social and Economic Equality
CJI Gavai also invoked Dr. Ambedkar’s cautionary note regarding socio-economic disparities. Ambedkar had warned that while political equality—through the principle of one person, one vote—was foundational, true democracy could not exist without addressing social and economic inequalities.
“Our society remains segmented into rigid structures, and wealth remains in the hands of a few,” Gavai said. “Unless these disparities are bridged, the ideals of democracy cannot be fully realized.”
Judiciary and Executive: A Harmonious Relationship
The CJI praised the collaborative functioning of the judiciary and executive, stating that the Supreme Court continues to interpret the Constitution and uphold fundamental rights with dedication. He further recognized the vital role that lawyers play in delivering justice, likening the Bar and Bench to “two wheels of a chariot” that must work in sync for the justice system to move forward.
Remarks by Other Dignitaries
Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal extended congratulations for the successful completion of the new court facilities. He advocated for the inclusion of tele-law practitioners in the allocation of chambers.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath commended the Allahabad High Court for its cooperation in facilitating smooth operations during the Mahakumbh. “Had the court stayed any decisions, the event couldn’t have proceeded smoothly,” he remarked.
Addressing the challenges faced by lawyers, the Chief Minister added humorously, “We always wonder why lawyers are stressed. Often, they work under trees. Hopefully, the ACs in the new chambers will cool your tempers!”
A Call for Responsible Use of New Facilities
Justice Surya Kant encouraged legal professionals to make constructive use of the new infrastructure and to remain mindful of the needs of district and sessions courts. He stressed that modern infrastructure is essential for efficient judicial functioning.
Justice Vikram Nath applauded Chief Justice Arun Bhansali of the Allahabad High Court for his silent yet impactful efforts to improve the institution. “He doesn’t speak much but continues to work quietly for the betterment of the judiciary,” Nath observed.
Conclusion
The inauguration event at the Allahabad High Court served not just as a celebration of new infrastructure, but as a reaffirmation of the core constitutional values of unity, equality, and justice. As CJI BR Gavai and other dignitaries highlighted, these values must be upheld both through institutional action and individual responsibility within the legal fraternity.
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