Chief Justice of India BR Gavai on Saturday delivered a candid and impassioned address at the convocation ceremony of NALSAR University of Law in Hyderabad, calling out the deep-rooted problems plaguing the Indian legal system.
Speaking at Justice City in Medchal, CJI Gavai declared that the justice delivery mechanism is grappling with “unique challenges” and is “badly in need of fixing.”
“Delays in trials can sometimes go on for decades,” he said.
“We have seen cases where someone has been found innocent after spending years in jail as an undertrial.”
His remarks drew attention to the chronic judicial delays and the human cost of an overburdened system, especially for undertrial prisoners who languish behind bars while awaiting verdicts.
Despite the grim diagnosis, Gavai struck a cautiously optimistic tone.
“Even though I conclude that our legal system is badly in need of fixing, I remain cautiously optimistic that my fellow citizens will rise to the challenges.”
A Call for Reform with Integrity
Addressing the graduating class, the Chief Justice urged young legal professionals to take on the mantle of reform.
“Our best talent can help us resolve the problems we are facing,” he said.
He encouraged students to pursue education abroad through scholarships, to lessen the financial burden on their families, and advised them to choose mentors based on integrity—not influence.
An Emotional Moment
Justice Gavai also grew emotional during the convocation, speaking of a fellow judge whose dream had come true—underscoring the personal sacrifices often made in public service.
The ceremony was presided over by Acting Chief Justice of Telangana High Court Justice Sujoy Paul, and was attended by Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy and Supreme Court Judge Justice PS Narasimha.
