CJI D.Y. Chandrachud recently emphasized that while institutions like the judiciary can improve, it doesn’t imply fundamental flaws. Addressing the collegium system and judicial responsibilities, he highlighted the maturity in consultative appointments and the importance of thoughtful legal processes. Acknowledging social media’s impact, he also noted its positive potential in societal engagement and transparency.
Mumbai: In a recent interaction following his inaugural address at the Marathi daily Loksatta’s lecture series, Chief Justice of India (CJI) D.Y. Chandrachud addressed questions on judicial processes, the collegium system, and social media’s impact on the judiciary. The CJI emphasized that while every institution, including the judiciary, can improve, this potential for enhancement does not indicate fundamental flaws.
Collegium System: A Consultative Dialogue
Responding to a question about the collegium system used for appointing Supreme Court and High Court judges, CJI Chandrachud described it as a “federal system,” emphasizing its reliance on different levels of government and judiciary in a consultative approach.
“It is a process of consultative dialogue, where consensus emerges, but at times there is no consensus, but that’s part of the system. We must have the maturity to understand that this represents the strength of our system,”
he asserted, highlighting the collegium’s role in fostering consensus.
The CJI further acknowledged the importance of dialogue and understanding between various levels of government and judiciary, expressing optimism for continued cooperation.
“I wish, we will be able to foster a greater consensus, but the point of the matter is, this is dealt with a very great level of maturity on the parts of different levels within the judiciary and different levels within the governments,”
he said. This statement reaffirms the judiciary’s approach to addressing and resolving potential conflicts through maturity and respect for diverse perspectives.
When objections arise about particular candidates,
“discussions take place with a very great deal of maturity,”
CJI Chandrachud noted, pointing out that objections are approached thoughtfully to maintain integrity in judicial appointments.
“Institutions Can Improve, But That Doesn’t Mean They’re Fundamentally Flawed”
The Chief Justice stressed the need to recognize that all institutions have room for improvement, but
“the very fact that there are institutional improvements, which are possible, should not lead us to a conclusion that there is something fundamentally wrong with the institution.”
This balanced approach encourages constructive criticism while reinforcing faith in existing frameworks.
“The fact that these institutions have stood the test of time for over the last 75 years is a reason for us to trust our system of democratic governance of which judiciary is well a part,”
he added, urging public trust in the resilience of India’s democratic institutions.
Judiciary’s Workload: Growing Volume and Complexity
Highlighting the workload that judges face as they rise in the judiciary, CJI Chandrachud dispelled misconceptions about judges’ commitment, stating,
“Our judges are not galivanting or goofing up even in the vacation, they are deeply committed to the work they do.”
With cases increasing in volume and complexity, judges continue to handle mounting responsibilities while remaining focused on justice.
He raised concerns about whether judges are given adequate time for reflection on legal principles.
“Do we give our judges sufficient time to think or read about the law, or do you just want them to be merely a mechanical machine in the disposal of cases?”
he questioned. This insight points to the need for a balanced system that allows judges time for thoughtful legal interpretation beyond case disposal.
Social Media’s Role: Both Challenge and Opportunity
CJI Chandrachud also touched upon the influence of social media, recognizing its dual impact on the judiciary.
“The whole universe of judging, I believe, has undergone changes due to social media. Judges have to be very careful about what they say, use appropriate language,”
he acknowledged, underlining the cautious communication now necessary for judicial figures in a hyperconnected world.
Despite these challenges, he expressed optimism about social media’s potential, saying,
“I still feel that the advent of social media is good for society, as it enables the user to reach a huge section of society.”
Social media, he believes, allows for greater societal engagement, though it requires mindfulness from judiciary members.
Building Confidence in the Judiciary
CJI Chandrachud’s comments offer a candid view of the judiciary’s inner workings, especially regarding the collegium system and the broader dynamics of judicial administration. His statements serve as a call for nuanced understanding of judicial processes and the recognition that constructive improvements should inspire confidence rather than mistrust in India’s legal institutions.
With these insights, the CJI’s address underscored a fundamental message: institutions, like individuals, are constantly evolving and can adapt to meet the nation’s growing expectations, without compromising their foundational integrity.
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