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CJI Gavai's Farewell: Why His Buddhist Faith Reinforces Secular Values

CJI BR Gavai made these heartfelt remarks during his farewell function organized by Supreme Court lawyers. He revealed how his father's secular approach shaped his respect for all religions including Hinduism, Sikhism, and Islam. The outgoing Chief Justice emphasized that the judiciary's strength lies in collective decision-making rather than individual personalities. He credited his remarkable journey from municipal school education to becoming India's top judge entirely to the Constitution and judicial institution.

Key Points: CJI BR Gavai Defends Secularism Despite Buddhist Faith

  • CJI Gavai credits his secular values to upbringing by his Ambedkarite father
  • Learned to respect all religions through visits to dargahs and gurudwaras
  • Emphasizes Supreme Court should never center around one individual
  • Stresses collective decision-making with full court participation
  • Highlights journey from municipal school to top judicial position
  • Attributes success to Constitution's values of justice and equality
2 min read

Though I practice Buddhism, I'm truly secular: CJI BR Gavai in his farewell speech

Outgoing Chief Justice BR Gavai emphasizes his secular upbringing and respect for all religions while crediting judiciary for his journey from municipal school to top judicial post.

"I've been brought up that way, to respect all religions - CJI BR Gavai"

New Delhi, November 20

The Chief Justice of India BR Gavai on Thursday said that though he practices Buddhism as his faith, he is a truly secular person who believes in every religion, including Hinduism, Sikhism, Islam and others.

CJI Gavai added that he has learned to be secular from his father, who was also truly secular and an erudite follower of Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar.

"While growing up with him (my father), whenever he used to visit various places for his political functions, if his friends asked ki sir yahan chalo yaha ka Dargah famous hai, Gurudwara famous hai. So I've been brought up that way, to respect all religions", the CJI said.

These remarks came from CJI Gavai ahead of his last working day (November 20) at the Court no. 1 of the apex court of India at his farewell function organised by the Supreme Court Advocates on Records Association (SCAORA).

Although CJI Gavai's official retirement is due on November 23, tomorrow (November 21, Friday) will be his last working day as the top judge of the country, as the apex court is officially closed on the weekend.

The CJI further said that after having been a judge for around two decades, whatever he is today, it's because of this institution (judiciary).

"I must pay my gratitude to this institution of the judiciary in the country," CJI Gavai said.

Further, the CJI noted that his journey, from studying in a municipal school to reaching the country's highest judicial office, was made possible by the Constitution of India and the values of justice, liberty, equality and fraternity that guided him throughout.

CJI Gavai credited both his six months as Chief Justice and his six and a half years as a Supreme Court judge to the collective strength of the institution.

CJI Gavai also emphasised that the Supreme Court should never be centred around one individual, including the Chief Justice of India. He highlighted that decisions should be taken collectively with the full court and that the functioning of the judiciary depends on the participation of all stakeholders, including judges, the bar, the registry and the staff.

The CJI further stressed the need to keep bodies like the SCBA and SCAORA closely involved, especially on issues concerning the bar.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Respect for all religions is the true essence of Indian culture. CJI Gavai's upbringing reflects the beautiful diversity of our nation. More leaders should follow this example!
A
Arjun K
While I appreciate his sentiments, I wish we saw more concrete actions supporting secularism in recent court judgments. Words are good, but actions matter more in judiciary.
S
Sarah B
His emphasis on collective decision-making rather than individual authority is crucial for maintaining judicial independence. A valuable lesson for all institutions!
M
Meera T
Beautiful to see how his father's teachings shaped his worldview. This is what parenting should be about - teaching respect for all faiths and communities. 🇮🇳
V
Vikram M
His journey proves that India's constitutional values work. From humble beginnings to CJI - this is the real "Make in India" story we should celebrate! 👏

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