Justice Gavai Slams Contempt Accused: “Even the Powerful Are Not Above the Law”
Ahead of taking oath as the 52nd Chief Justice of India, Justice BR Gavai sends a clear message on judicial accountability through a strong rebuke in a contempt case.
Ahead of taking oath as the 52nd Chief Justice of India, Justice BR Gavai sends a clear message on judicial accountability through a strong rebuke in a contempt case.
📰 Full Report:
News Desk, New Delhi, 08-May: In a dramatic court hearing on May 7, Justice BR Gavai—soon to be sworn in as the 52nd Chief Justice of India—made strong remarks while dealing with a contempt case involving a Deputy Collector (DC) from Andhra Pradesh.
The officer had moved the Supreme Court seeking relief from a two-year jail sentence imposed by the Andhra Pradesh High Court for defying its orders and bulldozing slums in Guntur district while serving as Tehsildar. However, instead of receiving reprieve, the officer was met with Justice Gavai’s fiery rebuke.
“Aaj aap apne bachchon ke liye mercy maang rahe hain, lekin jinke ghar thod diye unke bhi toh bachche the,” Justice Gavai remarked, calling out the officer’s blatant disregard for court orders.
Justice Gavai said
The bench—comprising Justice Gavai and Justice AG Masih—had earlier asked whether the petitioner was willing to accept demotion as punishment, as an alternative to jail time. But when the petitioner refused, Justice Gavai expressed deep disappointment.
“We wanted to save his career, but his attitude shows how he treats court orders. Jab 80 policewale gareebon ke ghar gira rahe the, tab bhagwan yaad nahi aaya?” the judge said.
Justice Gavai said
The officer, present in court, pleaded for mercy, citing his children. But Justice Gavai stood firm:
“Go stay there for 2 months. You’ll lose your job too. No one is above the law. We will not leave it without punishment.”
Justice Gavai said
This case sends a clear signal ahead of Justice Gavai’s elevation as CJI. His sharp stance reflects a broader concern over executive overreach, especially in cases involving poor and marginalised communities.
The ruling also fuels the ongoing discourse on contempt of court, judicial accountability, and the dignity of court orders—a topic that resonates in many politically sensitive matters today.
