Collegium System Safeguards Judiciary’s Independence, Says CJI Gavai at Allahabad University Event
PRAYAGRAJ: Chief Justice of India B.R. Gavai on Saturday underscored the vital importance of the collegium system in preserving the independence of the judiciary, asserting that it has played a decisive role in protecting the courts from undue influence by the executive and legislature.
He was addressing a seminar at the University of Allahabad on the theme “Constitution and Constitutionalism: The Philosophy of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar.”
Collegium System: Pillar of Judicial Independence
Justice Gavai emphasized that while critics often claim that “judges appoint judges,” the collegium process is in fact transparent and multi-layered.
He clarified that the system does not function in isolation; rather, it incorporates inputs from the State Government, the Central Government, the Governor, the Chief Minister, the Ministry of Law, and even intelligence agencies.
According to him, it is this carefully structured process that has ensured the judiciary’s autonomy and fortified it against external interference.
“The foundation of judicial independence in India is the Constitution,” he said, noting that Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s vision continues to safeguard democratic values even today.
Ambedkar’s Constitution: India’s Strength
Justice Gavai stated that India stands firm and united despite numerous challenges because of its constitutional framework.
“In the past 75 years, the Constitution has faced and overcome every external and internal challenge. It has kept India united and strong,” he remarked.
He contrasted India’s stability with the political turmoil witnessed in neighboring countries such as Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, emphasizing that the consistency and strength of India’s constitutional system set it apart.
Supreme Court Judge Justice Vikram Nath, who also addressed the gathering, highlighted that Dr. Ambedkar was not only the chief architect of the Constitution but also a guiding moral and democratic force for the nation.
Message of Peace from Kaushambi
Earlier in the day, Justice Gavai attended the annual function of Maheshwari Prasad Intermediate College in Kaushambi as the chief guest.
He recalled that this historical land spread the message of peace, truth, and non-violence through Lord Buddha.
“Emperor Ashoka, after conquering much of the world, chose the path of Buddha over war,” he said, adding that true progress lies in following the ideals of Lord Ram and Lord Buddha.
He urged that no matter how high one rises, cultural roots and traditions must never be forgotten.
India’s judiciary, Justice Gavai asserted, continues to stand as a powerful guardian of constitutional democracy — a legacy built on the visionary principles of Dr. Ambedkar, and strengthened by institutional mechanisms like the collegium system.
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