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The controversy surrounding Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the residence of Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival in September has resurfaced, with the CJI defending the interaction and emphasizing the independence of the judiciary. Critics, including lawyers and opposition leaders, expressed concerns about the potential for political influence on the judiciary, raising questions about the separation of powers.
Former additional solicitor general Indira Jaising was among those who raised concerns, alleging that Chandrachud had 'compromised the separation of powers' by hosting Modi at his home. Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) MP Sanjay Raut echoed similar sentiments, stating that a custodian of the Constitution meeting politicians in this manner could 'create doubts' in the public's mind. However, Chandrachud has firmly rejected these accusations, stating that there was 'absolutely nothing wrong' with Modi's visit.
Addressing the concerns at an event organized by The Indian Express, Chandrachud clarified that interactions with the executive, including the prime minister, president, and vice president, are commonplace in various official settings, such as Republic Day and Independence Day celebrations, and are not related to the judiciary's decision-making process. He asserted that these conversations do not influence the court's decisions, emphasizing that the judiciary's work is ultimately evaluated by its written judgements, which are open to public scrutiny.
Chandrachud also addressed his recent statement about praying for a solution to the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid dispute. He explained that his statement was made in the context of being asked how he maintained composure while presiding over cases of intense conflict. He described his 'mantra' as a personal practice of reflection, not necessarily a religious one, and emphasized his respect for all faiths. This statement comes in the backdrop of his role in the Supreme Court's 2019 verdict on the Ayodhya dispute, which declared the demolition of the Babri mosque illegal but handed over the land to a trust for the construction of a Ram temple.
The controversy highlights the delicate balance between the judiciary's independence and its interaction with the political executive. While Chandrachud's defense emphasizes the judiciary's commitment to impartiality and transparency, it remains a sensitive issue, with critics raising valid concerns about the potential for perceived bias or influence. The debate underscores the importance of maintaining public trust in the judiciary and ensuring its independence from political interference.
Source: ‘Absolutely nothing wrong’: CJI Chandrachud on PM Modi’s visit to his home for Ganesh Chaturthi