India’s Chief Justice Gavai Reasserts Constitution’s Supremacy Over Parliament

Chief Justice of India B.R. Gavai on Wednesday reaffirmed that the Constitution, not Parliament, is the ultimate authority in the country’s democratic framework. Speaking at a felicitation ceremony in his hometown of Amravati, Maharashtra, the recently sworn-in 52nd Chief Justice said the executive, legislature and judiciary each function “under” the Constitution’s mandate. Gavai cited the Supreme Court’s basic-structure doctrine, underscoring that while Parliament may amend the charter, it cannot alter its essential features. He added that judges are custodians of citizens’ rights and must act independently of political or public pressure, referencing past rulings including one that struck down “bulldozer justice” to protect the right to shelter.