Chief Justice BR Gavai Calls For Inclusive Legal Systems At LAWASIA Conference In Hanoi

Chief Justice of India BR Gavai delivered a keynote address at the 38th LAWASIA Conference in Hanoi, calling for stronger efforts from lawyers and judges to promote diversity and inclusion within legal systems.

Speaking virtually, he said that justice finds its truest meaning when it safeguards the most vulnerable. He added that the rule of law must serve as an instrument of fairness, dignity, and equality.

He noted that his own life reflected the transformative power of equality. Born into a marginalised community, he credited the Indian Constitution’s guarantees against caste-based discrimination. He said these guarantees enabled him to pursue education and rise through the legal profession.

“When the law safeguards dignity, it can change the course of a person’s life,” he said.

Advocating Equality Through Law and Practice

Chief Justice Gavai highlighted the moral philosophies of Gautam Buddha, Mahatma Gandhi, and Dr BR Ambedkar. He said these philosophies guide his vision of justice.

He explained that the judiciary must interpret the Constitution not merely in form but in spirit, expanding the reach of social justice.

He pointed out landmark Supreme Court rulings, including State of Kerala v NM Thomas, Indra Sawhney v Union of India, and BK Pavitra v Union of India. He said these rulings require the state to recognise and correct historical disadvantage instead of treating everyone identically to achieve equality.

He added that inclusion must begin within the legal profession itself. Law firms and court administrations can achieve this by hiring equitably, providing mentorship, and representing women and marginalised communities.

Justice Gavai emphasised that lawyers hold a unique responsibility to make justice accessible to all. He urged them to represent marginalised clients and to ensure fairness within their workplaces. He remarked, “Diversity brings people into the same room, but inclusion ensures everyone hears and values each voice.”

He also shared that, as Chief Justice, he gave directions to the Supreme Court administration. He instructed them to actively implement affirmative action policies in both spirit and practice.

He emphasised that inclusion must move beyond tokenism. It must actively transform institutions by questioning who holds power and whose stories receive attention.

Concluding his address, Chief Justice Gavai urged the global legal community to view diversity and inclusion not as ideals but as living commitments, stating, “By embracing diversity, practising inclusion, and upholding equity, we light the path from the shadows of history to a horizon where every soul can rise.”

Also Read: Chief Justice BR Gavai Calls For Stronger National Commitment To Protect And Empower The Girl Child