I regret I could not elevate any woman judge to Supreme Court: CJI BR Gavai

Outgoing Chief Justice of India (CJI) BR Gavai expressed regret at not being able to elevate any woman judge to the Supreme Court – five male judges were elevated to the top court during the tenure of the retiring CJI.

Five judges were elevated to the top court during the tenure of the retiring CJI, all men.

"There is a regret that I could not get a woman judge to the Supreme Court but we did recommended women judges which also included SC lawyers. Of course here is also present who will become the first woman CJI (Justice BV Nagarathna)," CJI Gavai said.

He was speaking at a farewell function organised for him on November 18 in the Ladies Bar Room of Supreme Court.

The function, organised by Senior Advocate Mahalakshmi Pavani, was attended by 17 judges. Pavani felicitated CJI Gavai and said that his leadership was marked by humility, accessibility and a strong commitment to constitutional values.

CJI Gavai, in his valedictory remarks, said,

“I thank all of you. I thank Ms. Pavani for inviting me and it is the first farewell I am attending in Delhi. Though first farewell was given to me by Justice Vikram Nath in Allahabad... Normally I never lose balance in court but if unintentionally ever hurt someone, I apologize.”

Justice Surya Kant also spoke on occasion. He said that CJI Gavai headed the institution in a dynamic way.

“I know Senior Advocate Pavani invited me with some caveats... but knowing the nature of the event I can say it's a long journey and we shall all play our part. I acknowledge the contributions made by the women members of the bar and it is not quite possible to explain in what ways the women members contribute to the bar,” the CJI-elect added.

A cake arranged by Senior Advocate Anitha Shenoy was jointly cut by CJI Gavai and Justice Kant. Advocate Bhakti Pasrija delivered the vote of thanks.