Justice BR Gavai, Chief Justice of India, delivered the inaugural Sir Maurice Rault Memorial Lecture on October 3, 2025, in Mauritius, addressing the theme ‘Rule of Law in the Largest Democracy’.
The event honoured the celebrated jurist Sir Maurice Rault, recognising his contributions to Mauritian jurisprudence and his steadfast commitment to justice, fairness, and the supremacy of law.
HE Mr Dharambeer Gokhool, President of Mauritius; Dr the Hon. Navinchandra Ramgoolam, Prime Minister of Mauritius; Hon. Mrs Rehana Mungly Gulbul, Chief Justice of Mauritius; diplomatic representatives; legal scholars; and members of the Mauritius Bar Association attended the lecture.
The legal and academic community warmly welcomed Justice Gavai, reflecting the strong India-Mauritius legal and cultural ties.
Justice Gavai paid tribute to Sir Maurice Rault, highlighting his remarkable legal career as barrister, magistrate, Director of Public Prosecutions, Supreme Court Judge, and Chief Justice of Mauritius.
Sir Maurice’s efforts in upholding judicial independence, limiting discretionary power, and promoting legal fairness continue to inspire contemporary jurists in both Mauritius and India.
India-Mauritius Legal and Historical Links
The lecture traced the shared historical and cultural ties between India and Mauritius, including the migration of Indian workers during colonial rule and the enduring influence of Mahatma Gandhi.
Justice Gavai emphasised that these historical connections provide a shared foundation for legal and ethical governance in both nations.
Justice Gavai explored the evolution of the Rule of Law in India, drawing on constitutional provisions and landmark Supreme Court rulings. He also highlighted the ethical principles outlined by Mahatma Gandhi and Dr BR Ambedkar.
Key judgments discussed included Chiranjit Lal Chowdhuri v Union of India, Kesavananda Bharati v State of Kerala, Maneka Gandhi v Union of India, Shayara Bano v Union of India, and Bilkis Yakub Rasool v Union of India. These cases demonstrated how the judiciary safeguards equality, prevents arbitrariness, and ensures justice for vulnerable communities.
The lecture emphasised that the Rule of Law extends beyond legal texts to guide ethical governance, administrative fairness, and democratic accountability.
Justice Gavai illustrated this with his own ‘Bulldozer Judgment’, establishing safeguards against arbitrary executive actions and reinforcing the principle that law, not individual authority, governs society.
Concluding the lecture, Justice Gavai highlighted how India and Mauritius can continue to deepen their partnership based on shared legal and ethical principles.
The event reaffirmed the commitment of both nations to uphold justice, equality, and democratic governance. It also reflected Sir Maurice Rault’s enduring legacy.
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