CJI BR Gavai: 'Constitution Must Ensure Economic Equality Or Risk Collapse Like House Of Cards'

Mumbai: Chief Justice of India (CJI) BR Gavai spoke at a felicitation event organised by the Advocates Association of Western India (AAWI) in Mumbai, delivering an emotional and thought-provoking address that touched upon judicial responsibility, constitutional ideals, and the sacrifices of the armed forces.

The CJI reflected on the foundational values of India’s Constitution, warning that unless social and economic inequality is addressed, “the entire edifice will collapse like a house of cards.”

He emphasised that political democracy alone is insufficient unless accompanied by social and economic democracy. “We live in a country where vast wealth is concentrated in the hands of a few, while a majority struggle to afford even two meals a day,” he said.

He described the Constitution as a living document, where “liberty without equality leads to a lawless society, and equality without liberty stifles individual initiative.” To ensure both coexist meaningfully, “fraternity must act like the police to hold society together.”.

On the significance of India’s constitutional journey, he remarked, “Seventy-five years is not a long period in the working of a Constitution. Our fundamental rights and directive principles are like the two golden wheels of a chariot, both must move in tandem.”

AAWI announced that it had raised Rs11 lakh in support of India’s armed forces. CJI Gavai lauded the contribution, stating, “We are safe in our country and can breathe without fear because of the armed forces. It’s a proud moment to raise this amount for them.”

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The CJI also got emotional while recalling his late father, Ramkrishna Gavai, who was an MP and a Governor. Narrating a heartwarming anecdote, he said an advocate had once told his father, “Your son has written good judgments. He will be a good judge,” to which the elder Gavai humbly replied, “With your blessings, he will.” CJI Gavai added, “Few people’s dreams come true. I am glad my father’s dream has.”

Praising the AAWI, the CJI said it is a truly secular bar association where caste, creed, and religion have never influenced elections.