President Droupadi Murmu has sought the Supreme Court’s opinion on whether judicial review can apply to the President’s and Governors’ actions regarding state assembly Bills, as constitutional timelines are not specified. This inquiry raises significant issues regarding separation of powers and judicial oversight in the democratic process.
Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar criticized the judiciary for constitutional overreach, urging all institutions in India to respect their defined roles. He emphasized that internal conflicts weaken democracy more than external threats and called for cooperation among the legislature, judiciary, and executive to maintain effective governance and mutual respect within constitutional boundaries.
Justice KV Viswanathan of the Supreme Court dissented, stating that courts lack the authority to modify arbitral awards under Sections 34 and 37 of the Arbitration and Conciliation Act. He emphasized that Article 142 cannot supplant substantive law, opposing the majority view that allowed for limited modifications, warning of potential complications in international enforcement.
The Supreme Court of India intervened to support 250 students by granting a hotel management institute permission to operate temporarily from a new location, as its permanent campus is not yet ready. The court used its powers under Article 142, allowing a two-year period to ensure students’ education remains uninterrupted during the transition.
Subhash Theekkadan, a Kerala lawyer, has requested the Attorney General to initiate criminal contempt proceedings against Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar for his statements made on April 17, 2025, which allegedly undermine the authority of the Supreme Court. Theekkadan argues these remarks threaten judicial independence and public confidence in the judiciary.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma criticized Congress for undermining the judiciary while defending the BJP’s position on judicial independence. In response to controversial remarks by BJP MPs about the Supreme Court, Sarma emphasized respect for judicial institutions, highlighting Congress’s history of attacking judges when verdicts are unfavorable.
Last week, Vice President Dhankhar criticized the judiciary for setting deadlines on presidential decisions, suggesting it acted like a “super Parliament.” Legal experts condemned his remarks as irresponsible. BJP MP Dubey also disparaged the Supreme Court, prompting the BJP leadership to clarify their respect for the judiciary amidst concerns over recent riots related to a controversial law.
