Tue May 20 19:58:08 UTC 2025: **Summary:**
A protocol lapse occurred during the felicitation program for Chief Justice of India (CJI) Bhushan Gavai in Mumbai on May 18th. Senior Maharashtra government officials were absent from the ceremony, drawing criticism from Congress leader Nana Patole, who has written to the President of India seeking action against the officials. The CJI himself expressed displeasure. The Maharashtra government has since issued new protocol guidelines designating the CJI as a Permanent State Guest and outlining which officials should be present to welcome him during visits. Maharashtra Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule has apologized for the lapse.
**News Article:**
**Maharashtra Government Faces Backlash Over Protocol Lapse During CJI’s Visit**
**Mumbai, May 21, 2025** – The Maharashtra government is under fire after senior officials were absent during a felicitation program for Chief Justice of India (CJI) Bhushan Gavai in Mumbai on May 18th. The absence has sparked outrage, with Congress leader Nana Patole writing to the President of India, demanding action against the officials for violating protocol.
Patole highlighted the significance of the lapse, noting that Justice Gavai hails from a Scheduled Caste and is an admirer of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, making his ascension to the highest judicial office a point of pride for marginalized communities. “This disregard by state officials amounts to more than a mere administrative lapse. It reflects a grave insensitivity towards constitutional values and social equity,” Patole stated.
The CJI himself reportedly expressed displeasure at the absence of key officials. Maharashtra’s opposition parties have also joined in condemning the State government.
In response to the uproar, Maharashtra Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule has issued an apology to the CJI. Furthermore, the Maharashtra government has released new protocol guidelines designating the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court as a Permanent State Guest. The guidelines outline that during the CJI’s visits, the Chief Secretary (or a senior representative), the Director General of Police (or a senior representative), and respective District Collectors and Police Commissioners (or their representatives) must be present to welcome him.
This decision was made following demands for accountability after the initial protocol failure during CJI Gavai’s first visit to Mumbai after assuming his position. The incident raises questions about the state government’s respect for constitutional offices and inclusive governance.
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