Judiciary – “Both guardian & moral conscience of Constitution”: CJI Gavai

The article features remarks by Dhananjaya Y. Chandrachud (Chief Justice of India) in a speech emphasising the dual role of the judiciary as both the guardian and the moral-conscience of the Constitution. He underscored that courts must not only adjudicate disputes but also uphold values such as dignity, equality and rule of law, especially in a changing society. The piece examines how the judiciary faces complex challenges—technological, social and institutional—and must adapt to fulfil its constitutional functions. It delves into themes of access to justice, independence of courts, the role of judges in democracy, and how legal institutions must maintain public trust. The article draws on the CJI’s view that courts are not mere dispute-resolvers but are also charged with preserving the constitutional ethos for future generations.