'To suit needs of society': CJI Gavai calls for 'pragmatic' interpretation of Constitution; urges judges not to think about a case once it is decided

NEW DELHI: Chief Justice of India (CJI) Bhushan Ramkrishna Gavai has called for the Constitution to be interpreted in a "practical" manner and in a way which "suits the needs of society."

CJI Gavai made the remark at a felicitation organised for him by the Bombay high court in Mumbai on Saturday. Speaking at the event, he cited a past Supreme Court judgment, and stressed on the need to interpret laws or the Constitution in the context of "problems faced by the present generation."

"The interpretation has to be pragmatic. It has to be one that suits the needs of society," news agency quoted him as saying.

Judges, he said, are expected to work as per their conscience, the oath of office and law, but "should never be perturbed once a matter is decided."

"A judge should cut off his mind from the matter and forget what happens to it thereafter," the country's 52nd chief justice added.

Talking about the appointment of judges, the CJI asserted that the judiciary's independence "shall not be compromised at any cost".

Further, the chief justice stated that While making appointments to the Supreme Court and high courts, the Supreme Court collegium ensures merit is maintained while there is diversity and inclusiveness.

A former practicing lawyer at the Bombay high court, he also talked about how, lately, he has been receiving complaints about the "rude behaviour" of judges.

"This is not a 10 to 5 job, it's an opportunity to serve the society. It is an opportunity to serve the nation. Please do not do anything which brings disrepute to this august institution, whose reputation has been so laboriously built by the devotion and dedication of generations of lawyers and generations of judges," he urged the legal community.

CJI Gavai assumed charge as the chief justice in May. His tenure will end in November.