CJI Gavai Urges Judges to Balance Power with Humility and Responsibility

Fast Summary

• Chief Justice of india (CJI) B.R. Gavai addressed the 10th All India Conference of the Central Administrative Tribunal on September 20, 2025.
• CJI Gavai highlighted issues of misconduct among some judges and judicial officers, urging them to wield their immense power with humility and duty.
• referring to a recent incident involving a high Court judge reprimanding a young lawyer leading to his unconsciousness in court, CJI stressed that judges and lawyers must work collaboratively as “two wheels of the golden chariot of justice.”
• He pointed out discontent among members of the Bar due to conduct from certain judicial officers who mistreat senior lawyers or avoid passing judgments unfavorable to the government after transitioning from administrative roles.
• Pendency in administrative tribunals was identified as a significant concern despite commendable case disposal rates; multiplicity of appeals stemming from tribunal decisions adds further complexity.
• Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal emphasized advancements like digitization in judicial processes during his remarks at the conference. Other notable attendees included Minister Jitendra singh and several judicial authorities including Delhi High Court Chief Justice Devendra Kumar upadhyaya.

Indian Opinion analysis

The candid observations by CJI B.R. Gavai bring critical issues within India’s justice delivery mechanism into focus-especially concerning judicial conduct and impartiality. His emphasis on collaboration between judges and lawyers reflects longstanding challenges linked with hierarchical dynamics within legal frameworks. The specific incident cited underscores how perceived arrogance or misuse of authority can erode trust within legal institutions.

Additionally, concerns regarding pendency rates highlight systemic inefficiencies that strain citizens seeking resolution through administrative tribunals. Calls for tribunal members with prior administrative ties to act impartially demand introspection across governance-linked judiciary corridors. Union Law Minister’s stress on digitization shows optimism toward modernization efforts but requires concerted implementation strategies for tangible reform.

Such conferences serve as instrumental platforms for dialog between policymakers, judiciary professionals, and administrators but will need sustained action beyond discussions for lasting impact on access, transparency, and efficiency within India’s justice system.

read more: Chief Justice urges introspection