CJI Gavai’s First Visit to Srinagar Post-Article 370 Abrogation

Chief Justice of India B R Gavai recently visited Srinagar for the first time since the abrogation of Article 370. During his visit, he expressed his admiration for the region’s natural beauty, quoting a Persian couplet to describe the picturesque landscape. His remarks highlighted the serene environment of Srinagar, which he referred to as a “paradise,” and conveyed a sense of feeling at home in the region.

Addressing Justice and Legal Infrastructure

While attending a NALSA conference, CJI Gavai emphasized the importance of ensuring justice for all citizens. He underscored the judiciary’s role in maintaining fairness and accessibility in legal proceedings. His speech at the conference was a call to action for judicial bodies to uphold these principles, ensuring that justice is not only served but also perceived as equitable by all individuals.

Proposal for a Separate Bench in Ladakh

A significant part of CJI Gavai’s address was dedicated to discussing the judicial infrastructure in the Union Territories of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh. He urged the J&K and Ladakh High Court to consider establishing a separate bench for Ladakh. This proposal came in response to a request from the Ladakh Bar Association, which has been advocating for improved legal services and accessibility in the region. The establishment of a separate bench would potentially enhance legal proceedings’ efficiency and accessibility for residents of Ladakh.

Implications for Legal Access in Ladakh

The proposal for a separate bench in Ladakh reflects ongoing efforts to improve legal access and infrastructure in remote regions. If implemented, it could significantly impact how justice is administered in Ladakh, providing residents with more direct access to legal resources and reducing travel burdens associated with attending court proceedings in distant locations.