On Sunday(26th May), Former Union Minister Upendra Kushwaha expressed optimism for the BJP-led NDA to endeavor in eliminating the “undemocratic” collegium system upon regaining power. He voiced his stance during an election rally in Karakat, with Union Home Minister Amit Shah in attendance.
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BIHAR: On Sunday(26th May), Former Union Minister Upendra Kushwaha voiced his hope that the BJP-led NDA, upon returning to power, will make a renewed effort to abolish the “undemocratic” collegium system for appointing judges in the higher judiciary. Kushwaha articulated his concerns during an election rally in the Karakat Lok Sabha constituency, where he is a candidate, with Union Home Minister Amit Shah present at the event.
“The collegium system exhibits numerous flaws, rendering it undemocratic. Its operation has effectively closed off opportunities for judgeship within the higher judiciary for Dalits, OBCs, and even economically disadvantaged individuals from the upper castes,”
– stated Kushwaha, who leads the Rashtriya Lok Morcha (RLM). His critique of the system emphasized the exclusionary nature of judicial appointments under the current framework.
He further elaborated on the composition of the bench in the Supreme Court and high courts, asserting that-
“The composition of the bench in both the Supreme Court and the high courts predominantly comprises individuals from a select few hundred families. This reality has drawn criticism from none other than the current president and her predecessor, underscoring the flaws inherent in this system.”
This observation highlights the perceived nepotism and lack of diversity within the judiciary.
Kushwaha, who served as the Minister of State for Human Resource Development in the first Narendra Modi government, reminisced about the National Judicial Appointments Commission (NJAC) Bill introduced in 2014.
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“It was, for some reason, struck down by the Supreme Court.”
-he lamented, expressing his disappointment over the judiciary’s decision to nullify the legislative attempt at reforming judicial appointments.
Criticizing RJD president Lalu Prasad, an NDA ally, Kushwaha questioned Prasad’s commitment to social justice.
He pointedly remarked-
“He served as a Union minister and remained a significant ally of the UPA throughout the coalition’s tenure in power. However, he never spoke out against the collegium system during that time.”
This accusation underscored Kushwaha’s assertion that Prasad, despite his political influence, failed to address the systemic issues within the judiciary during his tenure.
Kushwaha’s statements at the rally were indicative of his broader agenda to push for judicial reforms that ensure a more inclusive and transparent process for appointing judges. His call for dismantling the collegium system and replacing it with a more democratic mechanism is rooted in the belief that such changes are essential for achieving true social justice and equality within the legal system.
Mr. Kushwaha, a prominent OBC leader, highlighted the NDA’s firm stance on various critical issues, particularly judicial reforms and reservations, amidst ongoing corruption scandals against the RJD chief.
“We cannot anticipate a principled stance on such matters from an individual who continually oscillates between periods of incarceration and release.”
– he remarked, referring to the legal troubles of the RJD leader.
Mr. Kushwaha emphasized the NDA’s proactive approach in tackling the controversial collegium system.
“The NDA was the one to courageously confront the challenging issue of the collegium system head-on. Furthermore, it is the NDA that remains committed to persisting in this endeavor.”
– he asserted, reiterating the alliance’s commitment to judicial reforms.
Known for his unwavering support for reservations in the higher judiciary, Mr. Kushwaha has maintained his stance despite shifting political alliances multiple times. His dedication to this contentious issue remains unshaken, reflecting his consistency and commitment to the cause.
Addressing the rumors propagated by his detractors, Mr. Kushwaha vehemently denied any opposition to the 10 percent quota for Economically Weaker Sections introduced by the Modi government.
He stated-
“I had endorsed the bill. If anyone can provide evidence of my opposition to it, I will withdraw from politics.”
Polling in Karakat is slated for June 1, where Mr. Kushwaha faces a competitive three-cornered contest. His opponents include Raja Ram of CPI(ML) Liberation and Bhojpuri superstar Pawan Singh, who is running as an Independent candidate. Singh, despite being expelled from the BJP, is anticipated to garner a significant portion of the Rajput votes, adding complexity to the electoral dynamics.
Mr. Kushwaha’s campaign has been marked by his efforts to highlight the NDA’s achievements and his own contributions to legislative reforms. His remarks not only reinforce his political stance but also serve as a critique of his opponents’ integrity and policies. The upcoming elections will be a crucial test of his influence and the electorate’s response to his principled positions on these issues.
