Senior advocate Kapil Sibal has expressed profound admiration for outgoing Chief Justice of India BR Gavai, describing him as one of the most free-minded judges in Indian judicial history with an exceptional commitment to upholding liberty and institutional accountability.
A Legacy of Constitutional Integrity
In an exclusive conversation with The Indian Express, the former Union minister and ex-president of the Supreme Court Bar Association highlighted Justice Gavai's nuanced understanding of the Constitution and his remarkable awareness of India's ground realities. Sibal emphasized that Gavai possessed an innate sense of justice that guided his decisions throughout his tenure.
The senior advocate noted that throughout his judgments, CJI Gavai maintained a consistent thread of ensuring institutions remained accountable for their actions. This commitment to accountability, combined with his deep concern for social justice, defined his approach to the numerous constitutional matters he presided over.
Personal Qualities and Judicial Philosophy
Beyond his legal acumen, Sibal described Justice Gavai as a humble and pleasant judge who maintained firmness while conducting proceedings with a smile. His exceptional sensitivity to issues of liberty and social justice set him apart as a jurist who balanced legal principles with human concerns.
"Every judgment of his is sound in law in every sense of the word," Sibal remarked, expressing hope that future judges would follow the passion with which Justice Gavai approached both institutional accountability and individual liberties.
Historic Tenure and Retirement
Justice BR Gavai, who has served as India's 52nd Chief Justice since May 14, 2025, is scheduled to retire on November 23. His appointment marked a significant milestone in Indian judiciary, making him the first Buddhist and only the second Dalit to occupy the position of Chief Justice of India.
During a farewell ceremony organized by the Supreme Court Advocate on Records Association, Justice Gavai spoke about his secular outlook, stating: "I practice Buddhism but I don't have any depth in any religious studies. I am truly a secular person. I believe in all religions — Hinduism, Buddhism, Sikhism, Islam."
Throughout his tenure, Justice Gavai participated in several crucial constitutional decisions, including recently providing opinion as part of a five-judge bench on the contentious Presidential reference. Justice Surya Kant is set to become the 53rd Chief Justice when CJI Gavai demits office, with Justice Kant scheduled to remain in position until February 9, 2027.
As the legal community prepares to bid farewell to Justice Gavai, Kapil Sibal's words echo the sentiment of many who hope his legacy of balancing constitutional principles with social justice concerns will continue to influence the Indian judiciary for years to come.
