Chief Justice of India (CJI) B R Gavai has asserted that the nation's significant strides towards gender equality cannot be credited to the judiciary alone. He highlighted that this progress is the result of a powerful, collective voice of citizens who have consistently challenged and corrected regressive norms.
A Collective Effort for Change
Delivering the 30th Justice Sunanda Bhandare Memorial Lecture in 2025, CJI Gavai addressed the gathering on the theme "Justice for All: Building a Gender Equal and Inclusive India". He explained that historical advancements have been achieved through a multi-pronged approach involving reform, reinterpretation, and legislative intervention, driven by public discourse.
The CJI placed great emphasis on the ongoing dialogue between the courts and the people of India. He described this interaction as "one of the most vital sources of India's democratic strength". This two-way communication, he suggested, is fundamental to the nation's evolving social fabric.
The Unfinished Journey
While acknowledging the progress made, Justice Gavai was quick to underscore that the mission is incomplete. He firmly stated that "the journey remains far from complete". The top judge urged a move beyond symbolic victories and token representation for women.
He outlined the crucial next step, saying, "The task before us is not merely to celebrate the symbolic achievements or token representations but to ensure that women have a real and equal share in spaces of power, decision-making, and opportunity." This call to action shifts the focus from numerical presence to substantive and influential participation in all spheres of society.
Looking Forward
The lecture served as a powerful reminder that legal frameworks and court judgments, while essential, are part of a larger ecosystem of change. True and lasting gender equality, as per CJI Gavai's address, requires sustained effort from every segment of society. The citizenry's role in questioning outdated precedents continues to be the catalyst for a more inclusive India.
