Maharashtra govt issues protocol guidelines for CJI visit amid row over lapses

Mumbai: Amid criticism, the Maharashtra government has issued protocol guidelines to ensure adherence to official decorum during the visit of the Chief Justice of India to Mumbai and other parts of the state.

The decision follows after Justice B R Gavai, the Chief Justice of India, expressed displeasure over the absence of Maharashtra's Chief Secretary, Director General of Police and Mumbai's Police Commissioner during his Sunday visit to Mumbai.

As per the Maharashtra State Guest Rules, 2004, dignitaries included in the list of declared state guests—or those considered as such—are accorded reception and farewell arrangements at airports by the State Protocol Department.

At the district level, the District Collector’s office ensures similar arrangements through designated protocol officers.

The Chief Justice of the Supreme Court is now officially designated as a Permanent State Guest in Maharashtra.

Accordingly, the Chief Justice will continue to be entitled to all protocol-related facilities as per the State Guest Rules, 2004, including accommodation, vehicle arrangements, and security throughout the state during visits.

During the Chief Justice’s visit to Mumbai, the Chief Secretary or their senior representative, the Director General of Police or a senior representative, and for visits to other districts, the respective District Collector and Commissioner/Superintendent of Police or their senior representatives are instructed to welcome the dignitary.

As per the General Administration Department's circular dated March 7, 2022, the department concerned with the purpose of the dignitary’s visit must appoint a liaison officer to facilitate coordination and reception.

Accordingly, during visits to Mumbai, the Law and Judiciary Department, Ministry of Maharashtra, shall appoint a Group-A level gazetted liaison officer. For visits to other districts, the respective district courts, in coordination with the District Collector, shall appoint such officers.

The General Administration Department has instructed all concerned authorities to strictly implement these guidelines.