India is governed by law, not bulldozers', says Chief Justice BR Gavai:

News Topical, Digital Desk : Chief Justice of India B.R. Gavai stated that India is a country that believes in the "rule of law." Governance here is not based on arbitrariness or force, but on the Constitution and the law. In his address at the "Rule of Law Memorial Lecture" in Mauritius, Chief Justice Gavai began his speech by recalling the deep ties between India and Mauritius. He noted that both countries have endured the hardships of colonialism and today, as free and democratic societies, are partners. He emphasized that law is power, not the arbitrary power of the state.

Gavai said that the "rule of law" means that everyone, whether ordinary citizens or those in power, must obey the law. He said that injustice has often been perpetrated in the name of law, such as slavery or colonial law, but the true law is one that protects justice, equality, and fairness.

Remembered the thoughts of Gandhi and Ambedkar

The Chief Justice invoked Mahatma Gandhi and said that before making any decision, one must consider its impact on the poorest and last person in society. Citing Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar, Gavai said that the Constitution has meticulously laid down rules and procedures to prevent abuse of power and ensure justice for every person. Gavai said that the Supreme Court of India has always upheld the "rule of law." He cited several landmark decisions.

These decisions of the Supreme Court are mentioned

Kesavananda Bharati Case (1973): In which the Supreme Court said that Parliament cannot change the basic structure of the Constitution.

Maneka Gandhi Case (1978): In which the court made it clear that any law should be just, fair and logical.

Triple Talaq Case (2017): In which the court declared it arbitrary and unconstitutional.

Electoral Bonds case (2024): In which the court said that transparency is necessary in donating to political parties.

India will be run by the Constitution, not by bulldozers.

Referring to his own recent decision, Gavai said that demolishing someone's house with a bulldozer without a hearing and due process of law is against the rule of law. He said, "India is governed by the rule of law, not the rule of bulldozers."