CJI Gavai’s Maharashtra Visit Marred by Protocol Breach: VP Dhankhar Backs Judiciary

Introduction

After taking office in May 2025, Chief Justice of India (CJI) Bhushan Ramkrishna Gavai made his first visit to his home state of Maharashtra. However, his trip was marred by a severe breach of etiquette. The absence of high-ranking state officials during his arrival generated a political issue, which resulted in senior bureaucrats issuing public apologies and bringing attention to the significance of respecting constitutional positions. In a public statement, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar expressed his support for Chief Justice of India Gavai and emphasized the importance of sticking to established processes in order to preserve the standing of constitutional institutions. According to [LawChakra][3, [The Times of India][2, and [Telegraph India][1],

For More Updates & Regular Notes Join Our Whats App Group (https://chat.whatsapp.com/DkucckgAEJbCtXwXr2yIt0) and Telegram Group ( https://t.me/legalmaestroeducators )

This is the breach of protocol.

During the course of his trip to Mumbai for a felicitation event that was hosted by the Bar Council of Maharashtra and Goa, Chief Justice of India Gavai observed that several important state officials were not there. These officials included the Chief Secretary, the Director General of Police (DGP), and the Mumbai Police Commissioner. He conveyed his dissatisfaction and stated that although he was not insisting on personal protocol, the respect that was paid to the position of the Chief Justice was of the utmost importance. This occurrence brought to light issues regarding the degree of mutual respect that exists between the three pillars of democracy, which are the legislative branch, the executive branch, and the judicial branch. The following sources are cited: [LawChakra][3, [Bar and Bench – Indian Legal news][4, and [The Times of India][5]

Apologies and Political Reactions to the Situation

As a result of the breach in decorum, there was a political commotion in Maharashtra. The mistake was slammed by opposition parties, which suggested that it demonstrated a contempt for the judiciary. The state administration, which is governed by the BJP, was criticized for the error. Chandrashekhar Bawankule, the Minister of Revenue, admitted that there was a mistake and extended his personal apology to Chief Justice of India Gavai on behalf of the government. The assurance that corrective actions would be done to prevent events of this nature in the future was provided by him. After that, the Chief Secretary, the Director General of Police, and the Commissioner of the Mumbai Police all issued formal apologies and met with the Chief Justice of India to convey their regret. ([The Times of India][2])

Additionally, the support of Vice President Dhankhar

In a public statement, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar expressed his support for Chief Justice of India Gavai, highlighting the importance of adhering to etiquette in order to preserve the dignity of constitutional offices. Within the context of his own personal experiences with protocol violations, he mentioned that he, too, had been a “sufferer” in instances that were comparable. Dhankhar emphasized that the matter at hand was not about acknowledging one’s personal status but rather about honoring the roles and responsibilities that come with constitutional positions. Specifically, he emphasized the significance of such regard for the effective operation of democratic institutions. In addition to [LawChakra][3, [www.ndtv.com][6, and [LawChakra][7],

This has wider-ranging implications for the respect of institutions.

As a result of the occurrence, the importance of mutual respect between the arms of government has been brought to light. In spite of the fact that it may appear to be for ceremonial purposes, protocol is actually a representation of the recognition and respect that is shown for the duties that each institution performs in governance. Regarding the functioning of democracy, disregarding such procedures can lead to the sense of an imbalance inside the institution, which in turn can weaken public faith in the democratic process. In light of the circumstances, the support that the Vice President has offered to the judicial system serves to emphasize the need of maintaining decorum and mutual respect among the various constitutional authorities. (5th edition of The Times of India)

An important reminder of the significance of etiquette in maintaining the dignity of constitutional offices is provided by the experience that Chief Justice of India Gavai had during his visit to Maharashtra. There is a widespread recognition of the significance of respecting institutions, as evidenced by the rapid apologies from state officials and the backing from Vice President Dhankhar. These kinds of occurrences highlight the necessity for all arms of government in India to uphold the ideals of mutual respect and cooperation as the country continues to navigate the difficulties of democratic administration. (8th edition of The Times of India)