CJI Gavai highlights judiciary’s role in protecting democracy


Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Oct 23: Chief Justice of India B R Gavai underscored the judiciary’s critical role beyond adjudication, describing courts as the “moral conscience of the Constitution” responsible for protecting democracy, fundamental rights, and ensuring accountability of power.

Speaking at the Fifth Wisdom for Future Talk Series hosted by the JSW School of Law at Bhutan’s Royal Institute of Management, CJI Gavai reflected on India’s constitutional evolution and its resonance with Bhutan’s constitutional principles.

“Courts are not merely adjudicatory bodies that resolve disputes between parties,” he said, “they are vital organs of constitutional governance that safeguard the rule of law and protect fundamental rights.”

The event was attended by Bhutanese dignitaries including Princess Sonam Dechan Wangchuck and Chief Justice of Bhutan Norbu Tshering.

Praising Bhutan as “a living lesson in what an ideal civilisation could be,” CJI Gavai noted its unique balance between tradition and modernity, human aspiration and nature, calling it a model for compassionate living.

He revisited landmark Indian Supreme Court judgments, particularly the Kesavananda Bharati case that established the “basic structure doctrine,” which limits Parliament’s power to amend the Constitution without destroying its core principles.

The CJI emphasized the expansive interpretation of the right to life in India’s jurisprudence, covering access to legal aid, health, education, clean environment, privacy, and protection against climate change, urging the State to ensure these rights translate into real benefits for citizens.

Highlighting judicial legitimacy, CJI Gavai stressed that courts derive authority from moral integrity and public trust, earned through transparency, reasoned judgments, and consistent upholding of constitutional values.

Concluding, he praised Bhutan’s constitutional commitment to Gross National Happiness, describing it as a blend of justice with joy, rights with responsibilities, and liberty with collective well-being.

“We share not only a geographical neighbourhood but also a deep commitment to constitutional values, justice, and human dignity,” he said. “May our shared commitment to justice and compassion continue to guide our paths forward.”

CJI Gavai ended his address with a heartfelt “Kadrinchey la”—Bhutanese for “Thank you.”

  

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Title: CJI Gavai highlights judiciary’s role in protecting democracy



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