Former CJI Bhushan Gavai Highlights Bar-Bench Synergy at Nagpur HCBA Ceremony
In a significant address at the installation ceremony of the newly elected executive body of the High Court Bar Association (HCBA) in Nagpur, former Chief Justice of India Bhushan Gavai underscored the critical role of the legal fraternity as the driving force of the justice system. Speaking as the chief guest at the event held at the renovated Vasantrao Deshpande Hall on Saturday, Justice Gavai eloquently described the bar and bench as "two wheels of the golden chariot of judiciary." He warned that "if one wheel slows down, the entire chariot comes to a standstill," emphasizing the indispensable partnership between lawyers and judges in upholding judicial integrity and efficiency.
Homecoming and Legacy of Nagpur's Legal Community
Justice Gavai, marking his "homecoming" as the first event after demitting office, expressed deep appreciation for the HCBA, stating, "I was always a member of HCBA." He commended the outgoing committee for their diligent work over the past four years, which included organizing the association's centenary celebrations and felicitating distinguished figures such as former CJI Uday Lalit and Justice Atul Chandurkar. Reflecting on Nagpur's rich judicial heritage, he proudly noted that the city has produced eminent stalwarts like Justice Vivian Bose, MR Bobde, and former CJI Mohammed Hidayatullah. "It is always a matter of pride to call ourselves members of HCBA, Nagpur," he said, crediting senior lawyers VR Manohar and ex-CJI Sharad Bobde for enhancing the bar's financial and professional standing. Justice Gavai also shared a personal anecdote about restoring a chair once used by Justice Hidayatullah during his tenure as government pleader, symbolizing the enduring legacy of the bar.
Installation of New Executive Committee and Leadership Insights
Justice Gavai formally declared the installation of the new executive committee, with Abhay Sambre elected as president by the highest margin and Shrirang Bhongade appointed as secretary. He highlighted Sambre's previous experience as secretary under former president Anil Mardikar, noting, "There is a big responsibility on his shoulders." Justice Anil Kilor, the senior administrative judge of the Nagpur bench of Bombay High Court, echoed this sentiment by recalling advice from former CJI Sharad Bobde: "You are carrying forward a legacy created by stalwarts." Justice Kilor emphasized that elections bring "trust that carries responsibility and service," urging the new body to uphold the bar's esteemed traditions.
Future Plans and Commitments from the New Leadership
In his acceptance speech, President Abhay Sambre extended gratitude to the outgoing team led by former president Atul Pande and secretary Amol Jaltare, acknowledging their foundational efforts: "You laid the foundation with hard work; it will guide us." He accepted the mandate with humility and outlined key initiatives for the upcoming term. Sambre highlighted the introduction of women's reservation this year, celebrating the election of two women in the open category as a step that will "enrich our collective." His plans include:
- Reviving the study circle for junior lawyers to foster continuous learning and professional development.
- Addressing practical issues such as parking and seating allocation through transparent processes.
- Strengthening coordination with the registry and bench to ensure smooth judicial operations.
- Prioritizing member welfare and institutional values to maintain the bar's goodwill across benches.
Justice Nitin Sambre of Delhi High Court, also present at the ceremony, urged members to nurture junior lawyers and preserve the institutional values that have defined the Nagpur bar. The event was attended by a distinguished gathering, including past and present judges, senior counsels, and bar members, reinforcing the collaborative spirit essential for a robust judiciary.
