“Can’t They Follow Simple Protocol?”: Wadettiwar Slams Maharashtra Officials Over CJI Gavai Snub

Mumbai: Maharashtra Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar has lashed out at senior state bureaucrats and police officials for what he called a “shameful breach of protocol” during the recent visit of Chief Justice of India Bhushan Gavai — the first after his elevation to the top post in the judiciary.

The absence of Maharashtra’s Chief Secretary, Director General of Police, and Mumbai Police Commissioner at a public event organized in honour of the CJI in Mumbai has sparked sharp political backlash. Taking to social media, Wadettiwar posted on X (formerly Twitter):

“It is a very unfortunate incident that a son of Maharashtra, through stubbornness and perseverance, reaches the post of Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of the country and is insulted by the government in his own state. Are the ruling elites and high-ranking officials in the Maharashtra government angry with the judiciary? Can’t they follow simple protocol? Will the government and the relevant administrative officials take responsibility for this? At least clarify whose fault it is?”

The event, which marked CJI Gavai’s maiden public appearance in his home state after assuming office, was notably boycotted by top government functionaries — a move that left the Chief Justice visibly disappointed.

Addressing the gathering, CJI Gavai did not hide his displeasure.

“It’s a question of respect by the other organs of the institution for the judiciary. If the Chief Justice of India is visiting Maharashtra for the first time, and the state’s Chief Secretary, the Director General of Police, and the Mumbai Police Commissioner don’t feel it appropriate to be present, then they need to reflect on that,” he said.

He went on to underline the importance of mutual respect among the pillars of democracy.

“When the head of a constitutional institution visits the state for the first time, the kind of reception given to them must be considered carefully… These may seem like small matters, but people need to understand their significance.”

In a subtle yet pointed remark that drew applause from the audience, the CJI said,

“If it had been one of us in such a situation, discussions about Article 142 might have taken place.”

Article 142 of the Indian Constitution allows the Supreme Court to pass any decree or order necessary for doing complete justice in any case before it.