CJI B R Gavai Inaugurates Itanagar Bench of Gauhati High Court
Chief Justice of India B R Gavai on Sunday emphasised that the judiciary, legislature, and executive exist only to serve the people by ensuring justice is delivered quickly and affordably.
He was speaking at the inauguration of the newly built Itanagar Permanent Bench of the Gauhati High Court in Arunachal Pradesh.
“I have always supported decentralisation. Justice should reach people at their doorsteps,” CJI Gavai said, adding that institutions are not meant for their own glory but for the welfare of citizens.
Praising the efforts of successive Gauhati High Court chief justices in improving access to justice, he lauded Arunachal Pradesh’s “unity in diversity” — home to 26 major tribes and over 100 sub-tribes — and the state’s initiatives to preserve its traditions. “The nation must progress, but not at the cost of our culture and traditions. Preserving them is a fundamental duty under the Constitution,” he added.
Recalling his travels to the Northeast, Gavai said he was deeply moved by the region’s vibrant tribal culture. He also shared an emotional experience from a visit to shelter homes in Manipur, where a woman told him, “You are welcome to your home.” “It touched me because India is one home for all Indians,” he said.
Quoting B R Ambedkar, the CJI reiterated, “India first and India last”, and urged everyone to read and uphold the Constitution. He also stressed the significance of Schedules V and VI in safeguarding the traditions of the Northeast’s tribal communities.
Chief Justice of the Gauhati High Court, Ashutosh Kumar, said the new building reflects the promise of justice without geographical barriers. “Let Arunachal be the place where justice comes first without delay, just like it witnesses the first sunrise,” he remarked.
The Rs 135.35 crore state-of-the-art complex has five courtrooms and modern facilities. Built by the Public Works Department, the project began in February 2021 after the foundation was laid by Chief Minister Pema Khandu in 2018.
