In his final address before demitting office, Chief Justice of India BR Gavai delivered an emotional and forceful reminder that the Supreme Court’s strength does not rest solely on its judges, but on the collective effort of every individual who keeps the institution running. Speaking at a farewell ceremony organised by the Supreme Court Advocates-on-Record Association (SCAORA), CJI Gavai emphasised that judgments are not the work of judges alone—they are the product of a vast ecosystem that includes the bar, the registry, court officers and countless staff members who ensure the wheels of justice turn smoothly.

CJI Gavai stressed that while judges may be the face of the judiciary, the courtroom machinery depends on seamless cooperation between all stakeholders. He urged that both the Supreme Court Bar Association and SCAORA must always be consulted on matters affecting the legal fraternity, noting that a judiciary disconnected from its bar cannot function at its best.

“As citizens, people only see the judges delivering verdicts. But a judgment represents the labor of an entire institution—from lawyers to registry officials to court staff. Without unity, the Supreme Court cannot uphold the expectations placed upon it,” he said.

The outgoing Chief Justice’s remarks came on his last working day, November 20. Although his official retirement is scheduled for November 23, the Supreme Court will remain shut over the weekend, making Thursday his final day presiding as the country’s top judge.