New Delhi, June 4, 2025 — Chief Justice of India CJI B.R. Gavai, while addressing a legal roundtable at the Supreme Court of the United Kingdom, has voiced serious concern over how judicial remarks made in a lighter vein are being reported out of context, potentially damaging public trust in the judiciary.
During the discussion, CJI B.R. Gavai cited a recent incident in which a Supreme Court judge’s casual courtroom remark was wrongly portrayed in the media, giving the public the impression that judges act based on personal pride or “ego.” CJI Gavai warned that such misreporting could erode public confidence in the justice system’s integrity.
CJI Gavai Highlights Dangers of Out-of-Context Reporting
CJI Gavai emphasized that the courtroom environment, while formal and serious, can sometimes involve light-hearted exchanges, especially between senior judges and junior advocates. He explained that one such remark, which was intended to offer guidance on court etiquette and soft skills to a junior lawyer, was sensationalized by the media.
The misquoted statement, presented as “Our ego is very fragile; if you offend it, your case will go out,” was taken out of its original humorous and educational context, CJI Gavai said. “The actual purpose of the comment was to advise a junior lawyer about the importance of presentation and respectful communication in court,” he clarified.
Live-Streaming: Transparency vs. Misinterpretation
CJI Gavai also touched upon the live-streaming of Constitution Bench proceedings by the Supreme Court of India, a move introduced to enhance judicial transparency and public engagement with important constitutional cases. However, he cautioned that while live-streaming empowers citizens with direct access to legal proceedings, it also carries the risk of remarks being selectively highlighted or misrepresented, especially on social media and digital news platforms.
He said, “Like all powerful tools, live-streaming must be used with caution. Taken out of context, statements can shape misleading narratives about the court and its functioning.”
Call for Responsible Media Conduct
Urging the media to exercise greater responsibility and sensitivity while reporting court proceedings, especially off-the-cuff remarks made by judges, CJI Gavai said the role of the press is vital in a democracy but must be aligned with ethical journalism. Misleading or selective reporting can create confusion and distrust among citizens, particularly when it involves comments from the highest judiciary.
He reiterated the importance of public perception in sustaining faith in judicial institutions, stating that every word spoken in the courtroom carries weight, but intent and context must be preserved while reporting.
Conclusion
CJI BR Gavai’s remarks serve as a critical reminder of the delicate balance between transparency and responsible reporting. As the Indian judiciary continues to embrace openness through live-streaming and public access, the media’s role in preserving accuracy, context, and judicial dignity becomes even more crucial. Misreporting not only undermines individual judges but also impacts the credibility of the entire justice system.
