CJI Gavai Slams Lawyers: 'Five Senior Judges Work Holidays, Yet We’re Blamed

Chief Justice of India B.R. Gavai unleashed sharp criticism at lawyers during a Supreme Court hearing, decrying their tendency to blame the judiciary for case backlogs while shirking vacation work. “Five senior judges are working even during holidays, yet the blame is on us,” he declared, per Bar and Bench, highlighting the court’s commitment amid accusations of delays.

The Triggering Incident
The CJI’s ire was sparked when a lawyer, unnamed in reports, requested postponing a petition until after the summer vacation, ignoring the Supreme Court’s schedule of “partial court working days” from May 26 to July 13.  The lawyer’s reluctance to engage frustrated the bench, prompting a broader rebuke.

Judiciary’s Vacation Efforts
Gavai clarified that the term “vacation” is a misnomer, as senior judges voluntarily hear cases during breaks. The Supreme Court’s summer session will see 10-12 judges working in shifts, addressing habeas corpus, bail, and eviction matters, per LiveLaw. This follows a 2024 pilot where 2,156 cases were resolved during vacations. Gavai’s point was clear: the judiciary’s proactive measures contrast with lawyers’ frequent unavailability, which stalls progress.

Lawyers Under Fire
The CJI’s remarks reflect ongoing tensions, as lawyers often cite court closures to deflect criticism for delays, despite 4.5 crore pending cases nationwide, per The Hindu. Advocates like Sanjay Hegde, quoted in India Today, acknowledged the judiciary’s efforts but urged better case management. X posts echoed public frustration, with users like @legalwatch
 praising Gavai’s candor while criticizing lawyers’ adjournments. The Bar Council, however, defended advocates, arguing systemic issues like understaffing share blame.

Path to Reform
Gavai’s outburst underscores the need for collaborative solutions. The Supreme Court’s e-filing and virtual hearings, handling 1.02 lakh cases in 2024, show progress, per The Indian Express. Yet, with only 34 judges against a sanctioned 56, the burden is immense. The CJI’s call for accountability demands lawyers match the judiciary’s diligence, fostering a system where justice isn’t delayed by inaction.