New Delhi: Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar on Monday drew attention to the remarks of Chief Justice of India (CJI) BR Gavai on the importance of protocol and institutional regard.
Referring to the protocol row involving CJI Gavai’s recent visit to Maharashtra, Dhankhar backed the CJI’s views. He said: “This morning I was reminded of something which is very critical in the country and that is not for oneself. What the present Chief Justice said, we must believe in protocol. Chief Justice of the country and protocol is placed very high. When he indicated this, it was not personal, it was for the position he holds and I am sure this will be kept in mind by one and all.”
“In a sense, I am also a sufferer, you would have seen the photograph of the President and the Prime Minister but not of the Vice-President. Once I demit the office, I’ll ensure that my successor has a photograph but I am really beholden to the present Chief Justice for inviting attention to the people in bureaucracy — adherence to protocol is fundamental,” he added.
CJI Gavai had on Sunday voiced concern over the breach of protocol during his recent visit to Maharashtra, pointing out that top state officials, including the Chief Secretary, Director General of Police, and the Mumbai Police Commissioner, were not present to receive him upon his arrival in the city.
Later, speaking at a felicitation event hosted in his honour by the Bar Council of Maharashtra and Goa, Gavai underscored the importance of mutual respect among the three pillars of democracy — the judiciary, the legislature, and the executive.
