Chief Justice Gavai Advocates for E-Libraries in Legal Profession

Chief Justice of India Bhushan Gavai emphasized the critical role of e-libraries in the evolving legal landscape during the inauguration of the Adv TR Gilda Memorial e-Library at the Amravati District and Sessions Court on October 7, 2023. This event, organized by the Amravati District Bar Association at Sipna College of Engineering, highlighted the necessity of digital resources for legal professionals in a time when virtual hearings have become commonplace.

During his address, Chief Justice Gavai stated, “E-libraries are no longer a luxury, they are a necessity.” He pointed out that the legal profession has experienced a significant digital transformation. Young lawyers, in particular, require immediate access to updated judgments, legal literature, and reference materials. The establishment of the e-library aims to meet these essential needs.

Despite a recent hospitalization, Gavai made the trip to Amravati against medical advice, expressing his personal connection to the late Adv TR Gilda, in whose memory the e-library was created. “It was a personal moment of pride,” he remarked, reflecting on his relationship with Gilda and the impact of this new facility on the legal community.

The Chief Justice also urged legal practitioners to integrate the digital library into their daily routines. He shared a Marathi proverb, “Vachal tar Vachaal,” which translates to “those who read, survive.” Gavai noted that the internet has transformed court operations, asserting that e-resources should be utilized not just for convenience but as a professional habit.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by notable figures including Supreme Court Justice Atul Chandurkar, Justices Anil Kilor and Pravin Patil, as well as district judge Sudhakar Yarlagadda. Family members of Chief Justice Gavai, including his mother Kamaltai and wife Dr Tejaswini, were also present to witness the event.

Following the inauguration, Chief Justice Gavai paid tribute to Kargil war heroes before heading to Srinagar for an event organized by the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA). The establishment of the e-library signifies a pivotal step toward modernizing legal resources, reaffirming the necessity of embracing digital tools in the practice of law.