I observe Buddhism, however I imagine in all religions: CJI B. R. Gavai

Outgoing Chief Justice of India B. R. Gavai on Thursday (November 20, 2025) stated that he practises Buddhism however he’s a really secular one that believes in all of the religions.

Speaking at a farewell operate organised by the Supreme Court Advocates on Record Association (SCAORA), Justice Gavai expressed his gratitude, saying that the nation’s judiciary has given him lots.

Justice Gavai is scheduled to retire on November 23, and Friday could be his final working day in Supreme Court.

“I practice Buddhism but I do not have much depth in any religious studies. I am truly secular and I believe in Hinduism, Sikhism, Islam, Christianity, everything,” Justice Gavai stated.

“I have learnt this from my father. He was a secular and erudite follower of Dr Ambedkar. While growing up, when we used to accompany him to political functions and his friends say, ‘Come here, the dargah here is famous, or the gurdwara here is famous’, we used to go,” the CJI recollected.

Justice Gavai stated he might attain the present place solely due to Dr. Ambedkar and the Constitution.

“Otherwise, I don’t think any boy studying in a municipal school sitting on the ground could ever dream of this. I have tried to live by the four cornerstones of the Indian Constitution — Justice, Liberty, Equality and Fraternity,” he stated.

Justice Gavai stated the Supreme Court shouldn’t be a CJI-centric courtroom however a courtroom of all of the judges.

“The Supreme Court is a very great institution. Unless all the stakeholders, including the judges, the bar, the registry and staff work together, the court cannot function. The Supreme Court Bar Association and SCAORA should always be taken on board where problems of the bar are concerned,” he stated.

CJI-designate Justice Surya Kant, who was current, stated that he has recognized Justice Gavai for twenty years.

He stated the outgoing CJI’s dedication for justice to the frequent man was really commendable.

“I have seen the humane side of Justice Gavai. He is warm, gracious and a great host. I am quite sure that even after his retirement, he will continue to guide the institution. His experience will remain an asset for the institution,” Justice Kant stated.

SCAORA president Vipin Nair thanked CJI Gavai for taking cognisance of the difficulty of investigating companies summoning attorneys as a part of their investigation.