Justice Must Reach the Last Citizen: CJI Gavai Dedicates Grand New Facility at Allahabad High Court
(Judicial Quest News Network)
Prayagraj, May 31: Chief Justice of India Justice Bhushan Ramakrishna Gavai on Saturday inaugurated a state-of-the-art advocate chamber and multilevel parking complex at the Allahabad High Court, underscoring that “it is our fundamental duty to reach out to the last citizen of this country who needs justice.”
In a stirring address, Justice Gavai reflected on India’s 75-year constitutional journey, highlighting the judiciary’s and executive’s pivotal roles in driving social and economic equality. “Laws enacted over the decades have returned land to farmers, empowered labourers, and uplifted marginalized communities,” he noted.
The CJI expressed deep gratitude to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath for allocating substantial funds for the new facility. He called the occasion especially meaningful as it coincided with the birth anniversary of Ahilyabai Holkar, a champion of justice and women’s rights.
Justice Gavai paid tribute to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s vision, recalling his historic address to the Constituent Assembly in 1949. “Ambedkar rightly said that democracy cannot exist without social and economic equality,” the Chief Justice emphasized. “Our progress over the past 75 years—and our unity during crises—are testaments to the strength of our Constitution.”
In a personal touch, Justice Gavai noted that Prayagraj holds a special place in his heart, calling it a land of powerful legacy. “This is my first official program as Chief Justice, and I am glad it’s in the sacred city of Prayagraj,” he said, citing its rich legal and literary history—from Motilal and Jawaharlal Nehru to Mahadevi Verma and Chandrashekhar Azad.
He also commended the Allahabad High Court judges who voluntarily gave up their official residences to make way for the new complex, calling it “a rare example of harmony between the bench and the bar.”
“No justice system can function unless the bar and bench work together,” he stated, praising the cooperation that made the facility possible. He also lauded ongoing efforts to expand infrastructure for litigants, especially women and people with disabilities, across districts in Uttar Pradesh.
“This building is not just for lawyers or judges,” Justice Gavai concluded. “It is a dedication to every citizen who comes to the courts seeking justice. And we must ensure no one is left behind.”
