V-P Radhakrishnan releases book on former CJI BR Gavai's judicial journey
New Delhi, July 14
Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan on Tuesday released the book "The Voice of Justice: Justice Gavai Speaks", underscoring the equal importance of restraint and authority in constitutional democracy,
Lauding former Chief Justice of India B.R. Gavai's contribution to the judiciary, Radhakrishnan said his journey reflects an abiding commitment to constitutional values, institutional balance and access to justice.
The Vice President said the judiciary occupies a vital place in preserving constitutional governance and safeguarding citizens' faith in the rule of law.
He noted that restraint is as important as authority in a constitutional democracy, and that both strong institutions and justice itself are sustained by institutional integrity, constitutional discipline, public trust and commitment to democratic values.
The Vice President said constitutional governance must remain responsive to the aspirations of ordinary citizens and evolving social realities.
He observed that empowering marginalised communities is essential to ensuring dignity, opportunity and hope for every individual.
The Vice President appealed to members of the legal fraternity to represent the poorest of the poor on a pro bono basis at regular intervals, so that justice is accessible to all.
Edited by S. Sivakumar and published by Thomson Reuters in association with the Commonwealth Legal Education Association (C.L.E.A.), the book brings together speeches, lectures and reflections of former Chief Justice of India Gavai.
Radhakrishnan described the book as an important constitutional document reflecting judicial thought shaped by experience, constitutional discipline and public responsibility.
He said the volume offers valuable insights into constitutionalism, rule of law, social justice and democratic governance, and would strengthen constitutional discourse and legal scholarship in Bharat.
Referring to the book's reflections on the Constitution, Radhakrishnan said it rightly presents the Constitution of India as a living and evolving document that has balanced continuity with change, authority with accountability, and rights with duties over the past seventy-five years.
He observed that the Constitution remains the foundation of democratic stability and national unity, while Parliament's power to amend it enables the nation to meet the needs of changing times.
— IANS
Reader Comments
The Vice President's point about restraint being as important as authority is spot on. In today's world, we often see institutions overstepping. A constitutional democracy thrives on balance and Gandhian values. Well said, Sir.
Interesting release. It's good to see legal scholarship being encouraged in India. The concept of a living constitution is something we debate in the US too. Would be curious to read how Justice Gavai interpreted constitutional morality.
I appreciate the call for pro bono work. But Sir, with due respect, the legal fraternity needs better incentives and support structures for this. Courts are already overburdened. We need systemic changes, not just appeals to conscience. Still, every positive step counts.
It's wonderful that the Vice President highlighted empowering marginalised communities. Justice Gavai's work on social justice and reservation matters has been pathbreaking. This book should be a must-read for law students and civil servants alike. 🇮🇳
As an outsider, I find India's constitutional journey fascinating. The balance between continuity and change, rights and duties - these are universal challenges. Justice Gavai's judicial philosophy seems deeply rooted in the lived reality of India's diversity.
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