In an exclusive interview with News24, former Chief Justice of India B.R. Gavai shared honest and personal reflections about public expectations, political narratives, and the challenges the justice system faces today. Calm and soft-spoken after retirement, Gavai said life is “good,” but many issues he dealt with on the bench still require urgent national attention.
Pollution Crisis and Failures in Implementation
On Delhi’s severe pollution, Gavai said the problem continues because government departments lack manpower. “You cannot discuss pollution only during Diwali. Departments responsible for handling it have vacancies. Without proper staff, how will court orders be followed?” he asked.
Reservation Debate and Impact of Social Media on Judiciary
Speaking about reservation, Gavai strongly defended introducing the creamy layer for SC/ST communities. He believes benefits must reach those who need them most. “I have seen Dalit officers marrying into upper-caste families. A creamy layer system will help truly needy families,” he said, recalling the judgment where he supported sub-classification.
Gavai expressed concern about the changing public attitude toward courts. He said that earlier, people treated the Supreme Court like a sacred space bowing their heads outside the building or entering courtrooms like places of prayer. “Today, abusive comments and trolling are common. Social media is responsible. Criticism of judgments is fine, but trolling judges is not,” he said.
He also dismissed the idea of taking any government post after retirement. “I decided long ago that I would not accept any position,” he said.
On whether the retirement age for judges should increase, Gavai said it’s unnecessary, though the age for Supreme Court and High Court judges should be uniform.
