India witnesses a historic showdown as Supreme Court judges, including CJI Surya Kant, face Union ministers Kiren Rijiju and Arjun Ram Meghwal in a friendly badminton match, blending sportsmanship with the spirit of institutional camaraderie.
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NEW DELHI: In a rare moment, senior figures from the judiciary and the central government are facing off on their official platforms and on a badminton court. Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justice Vikram Nath are set to compete against Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju and Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal in a friendly exhibition match in New Delhi.
The event, held at Thyagraj Stadium, marks an unusual yet symbolic encounter where collaboration and sportsmanship take precedence over institutional formality.
The match arrives at a time when the relationship between the judiciary and the executive often finds itself under national scrutiny. The friendly tournament serves as a reminder that dialogue and mutual respect can thrive outside official spaces. Just as the badminton net divides the court, it subtly reflects the constitutional balance between branches of government, keeping boundaries clear while allowing healthy interaction.
The exhibition tie headlines a larger two-day tournament featuring 84 judges from across the Supreme Court and various High Courts. The event includes:
- Men’s and women’s singles
- Doubles categories
- Participation of five women judges, showcasing growing representation in sports and the judiciary alike
Winners will later be honoured in a formal ceremony led by former Chief Justice BR Gavai and Justice Vikram Nath, who is currently next in line for the role of Chief Justice.
Despite demanding schedules, several participating judges have reportedly spent time preparing for the competition. Justice Vikram Nath and Justice Dipankar Datta, both part of the exhibition segment, are said to have practised consistently over the past week to sharpen their rhythm with the racquet.
The tournament has been conceptualized and organized by former international badminton player Abantika Deka, with support from the Ministry of Law and Justice and formal approval from the Supreme Court of India. The initiative aims to promote fitness culture and emotional well-being within the legal community.
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