Today, On 16th September, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar responded to the Supreme Court’s “caged parrot” remark about the CBI, emphasizing that institutions like the CBI operate independently under the rule of law. He cautioned against comments that could undermine the morale of these agencies. Dhankhar stressed the importance of respecting institutional autonomy.
New Delhi: Following a recent remark made by the Supreme Court concerning the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar stated on Monday that such comments could “demoralize” the agency.
Speaking at an event in Mumbai, Dhankhar emphasized the importance of being “highly mindful” of the nation’s institutions, noting that they are strong, function independently, and operate within the rule of law, supported by appropriate checks and balances.
Last Friday, Supreme Court Justice Ujjal Bhuyan remarked,
“The CBI must maintain transparency and work to eliminate the perception of it being a ‘caged parrot.'”
Justice Bhuyan also criticized the arrest of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in the excise policy case, calling it unjustified.
Dhankhar reiterated on Monday that all branches of the government share the same goal, ensuring that citizens are granted their full rights, and fostering the growth and prosperity of the country.
He remarked,
“They need to work together in harmony to cultivate and uphold democratic values, and further Constitutional principles. These sacred platforms the Legislature, the Executive, and the Judiciary must not become points of politically charged debates that undermine institutions that have long served the nation in difficult times,”
He clarified that by institutions, he referred to the Election Commission and investigative agencies.
Dhankhar emphasized that these bodies operate under “challenging circumstances” and such comments can “dishearten” them.
Dhankhar stated,
“It can spark political debates and drive a narrative. We must be highly aware of our institutions. They are strong, functioning independently within the rule of law, and proper checks and balances are in place,”
On Friday, Kejriwal granted bail and subsequently announced his decision to resign from his position, calling for early elections. He is expected to meet Delhi Lt. Governor VK Saxena on Tuesday, where he will likely submit his resignation.
For the second time in nearly a decade, India’s highest court referred to the country’s premier crime investigation agency as a “caged parrot.”
In his ruling granting bail to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in the CBI case related to the alleged Delhi liquor policy ‘scam’ on Friday (September 13).
Justice Ujjal Bhuyan stated,
“Not long ago, this Court rebuked the CBI, likening it to a caged parrot. It is crucial that the CBI dispel this image of being a caged parrot. Instead, the perception should be that of an uncaged parrot.”
Justice Bhuyan alluding to a 2013 remark by Justice R M Lodha during the hearing of the “Coalgate case,” which involved alleged irregularities in the allocation of coal block licences to private companies.