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New Delhi, Nov 23 (IANS) On the eve of handing over the reins to his successor, Chief Justice of India BR Gavai on Sunday reflected on the challenges posed by social media and said it has affected the judiciary just like other organs of the state.
Speaking to reporters at an interaction, 64-year-old CJI Gavai said: “Social media has become a problem these days, with people being held responsible for statements they never made, which is affecting not only the judiciary but all branches of the government.”
CJI Gavai, the first Buddhist to head the judiciary, stepped down on Sunday and made it clear that he would not hold any official post after retirement.
Hinting at his plans to serve society after retirement, the CJI said he would decide on his future plans after 10 days’ rest and expressed his intention to work in tribal areas, saying social work “is in our blood”.
The CJI has given historic decisions during his long judicial tenure. These include clarifications on the constitutional role of Governors and the President in relation to pending bills and the extent of executive delay.
His notable decisions include staying key provisions of the Waqf (Amendment) Act; Criticizing “bulldozer justice” and perpetuating demonetization.
The CJI also strongly suggested applying the “creamy layer” principle to the Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) to avail the benefits of affirmative action.
On Sunday, he clarified that his recent ruling on the presidential reference did not overturn the earlier two-judge decision, but merely outlined guidance for the future.
Earlier, CJI Gavai had won praise from Prime Minister Narendra Modi for showing exemplary calm after an attempt was made to throw objects in his court in October.
“Spoke to the Chief Justice of India, Justice BR Gavai Ji. The attack on him today in the Supreme Court complex has outraged every Indian. There is no place for such condemnable acts in our society. It is completely condemnable,” PM Modi said in a post on Twitter.
He said, “I appreciated the calmness displayed by Justice Gavai in facing such a situation. It highlights his commitment towards strengthening the values of justice and the spirit of our Constitution.”
While taking oath in May, CJI Gavai, son of former Bihar Governor RS Gavai, was proud of the fact that he is the first Buddhist CJI of the country.
He said, “My father had converted to Buddhism along with Baba Saheb Ambedkar. I will become the first Buddhist Chief Justice of the country.”
Stating that he believed in all religions, Justice Gavai said, “I go to temples, dargahs, Jain temples, gurudwaras everywhere.”
–IANS
RCH/PGH