New Delhi : Chief Justice of India (CJI) Bhushan Ramkrishna Gavai underscored on Saturday that the judiciary’s primary responsibility is to ensure justice reaches the last citizen of the country, reported the New Indian Express. He stressed that this duty is equally shared by the legislature and the executive. Speaking at the inauguration ceremony of a new 14-storey advocate chamber and multi-level parking facility, the CJI reflected on the enduring importance of the Indian Constitution in maintaining national unity and strength during times of crisis.
Justice Gavai also referred to the landmark judgment delivered by a 13-judge bench five decades ago, which defined the scope of Parliament’s power to amend the Constitution. He reiterated that while the Parliament holds the authority to amend the Constitution, including provisions concerning Fundamental Rights, it cannot alter the basic structure of the Constitution.
CJI Gavai emphasized that the judiciary, legislature, and executive have played a crucial role in promoting social and economic justice over the 75 years since the Constitution came into effect. He cited key legislative reforms such as land redistribution from landlords to landless individuals, which have been challenged over time but significantly contributed to equity.
Referring to the pre-1973 legal stance, he noted that the Supreme Court previously upheld Fundamental Rights over Directive Principles in case of conflict. However, the 1973 Kesavananda Bharati judgment by a 13-judge bench established that while amendments are permitted, altering the Constitution’s core structure is beyond Parliament’s reach.
“The credit for India remaining united and resilient through various challenges goes to the strength of its Constitution,” Gavai remarked.
