Chief Justice of India Bhushan Gavai has emphasized that the new Bombay High Court complex in Bandra (East), whose foundation stone he laid on Wednesday, should prioritize functionality and accessibility over extravagance, declaring it should be a “temple of justice and not a seven-star hotel.”

Addressing the gathering, CJI Gavai stressed that the new building must reflect democratic values rather than imperial grandeur. “Judges are no more feudal lords. All institutions—judiciary, executive, and legislature—work under the Constitution to serve the last citizen of the country and provide justice to society,” he said. His remarks underscored the principle that the judiciary exists not for self-aggrandizement but for citizens seeking redress and fairness.

The Chief Justice responded to criticism regarding the alleged extravagance of the new complex, noting reports about limited amenities for judges. “Read in some newspapers that the building is extravagant. One lift is provided to be shared by two judges,” he remarked, highlighting that the design was mindful of efficiency and judicious use of resources rather than opulence. He added, “While planning court buildings, we concentrate on the needs of judges, but should not forget we exist for the needs of citizens, the litigants. This building should be a temple of justice and not a seven-star hotel.”

CJI Gavai, who assumed office on May 14, 2025, also reflected on the personal significance of the occasion. He noted that this would be his final visit to Maharashtra before retiring on November 24, expressing satisfaction with the judicial infrastructure in his home state. “Earlier, I was reluctant to be part of this event. But now I am experiencing gratitude that, as a judge who once discharged his duties in the Bombay High Court, I am ending my tenure by laying the foundation stone of the best court building in the entire country,” he said. He emphasized that the judiciary, legislature, and executive must work cohesively under the Constitution to ensure justice reaches all sections of society.

The CJI described the moment as a historic milestone in the 150-year history of the Bombay High Court. He added that the new building, when completed, would be the most iconic structure on the Western Express Highway, complementing the heritage of the old High Court building in South Mumbai. Rejecting suggestions that Maharashtra lags behind in judicial infrastructure, Gavai pointed to his tenure, during which he inaugurated or laid foundation stones for multiple judicial buildings across the state.

“Bar and bench are two wheels of the golden chariot of the institution of justice,” CJI Gavai remarked, highlighting the collaborative relationship between judges and lawyers in delivering justice effectively.

Political and Architectural Vision

The event also featured addresses by senior political leaders of the state. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis highlighted that the new building would complement the historic High Court structure, which has stood since 1862 and witnessed numerous pivotal moments in India’s legal and political history. He shared anecdotal details about the construction of the old building, noting that it was completed with an expenditure of ₹16,000, and even ₹300 was saved from the allocated funds.

Fadnavis emphasized that renowned architect Hafeez Contractor, who is associated with the project, has been instructed to ensure the new complex retains democratic grandeur rather than imperialistic pretensions. He noted that the design also accounts for government legal officers, stating, “We (government) are the biggest litigants and there should be space for our legal officers.” The Chief Minister expressed confidence that the new High Court building would be AI-enabledand completed on schedule.

Deputy Chief Ministers Ajit Pawar and Eknath Shinde also spoke at the ceremony, describing the foundation stone laying as a historic moment signaling a new era in the High Court’s century-and-a-half legacy. Ajit Pawar detailed that 15 acres of land have already been transferred for the project, with the remaining 15 acres to be handed over by March 2026. The total complex will span 50 lakh square feet, with a projected cost exceeding ₹4,000 crore, though funding is assured. Eknath Shinde added that the new complex is poised to become an iconic landmark, while complementing the existing High Court premises at Fort in South Mumbai.

Balancing Grandeur and Purpose

Throughout his speech, CJI Gavai repeatedly stressed the need to balance architectural grandeur with the essential purpose of the judiciary. He argued that court infrastructure should serve citizens and litigants first, rather than provide luxurious accommodations for judges. His insistence on avoiding “extravagance” and prioritizing service-oriented design reflects a broader vision for judicial spaces that are accessible, functional, and in harmony with constitutional principles.

Gavai’s remarks also carried an implicit critique of ostentatious public projects that prioritize appearances over utility. By advocating for a High Court complex that is both iconic and grounded, he positioned the judiciary as an institution accountable to the people it serves, rather than a symbol of personal prestige or historical legacy.

A Historic Occasion

The laying of the foundation stone thus marked a dual celebration: the continuation of the Bombay High Court’s legacy and the culmination of CJI Gavai’s tenure. His presence underscored the continuity of judicial vision, linking past, present, and future. The event also highlighted the collaboration between the judiciary and the state government in ensuring that the legal infrastructure meets the demands of modern governance while remaining rooted in democratic principles.

In conclusion, the new Bombay High Court complex promises to be more than just a building. It is envisioned as a temple of justice, reflecting both architectural prominence and the fundamental purpose of the judiciary: to serve citizens and uphold the Constitution. With CJI Gavai’s guiding remarks, political support from the state, and a focus on democratic grandeur, the project sets a benchmark for judicial infrastructure across India, blending functionality, symbolism, and accessibility in one of the country’s most significant legal institutions.