Advocate Mehmood Pracha’s plea seeking to nullify the 2019 Ayodhya judgment has been dismissed by Delhi’s District Court. The court called the case “frivolous” and imposed costs of Rs 6 lakh.
Former Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud while defended his statement about praying before the deity a day before delivering the verdict in the Ayodhya Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid dispute. He emphasized that the Indian Constitution does not require a judge to be an atheist to maintain independence.
Former Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, reflecting on the 2019 Ayodhya verdict, addressed criticisms, including Justice Rohinton Nariman’s sharp remarks that the decision undermined secularism, calling it a “travesty of justice.” Chandrachud emphasized that judicial decisions are public property open to scrutiny, highlighting democracy’s role in fostering such debates. He acknowledged Nariman’s perspective as a testament to the vibrancy of secularism in India but stressed the judiciary’s collective effort to bring peace through the judgment, which avoided individual authorship to symbolize unity. Chandrachud reaffirmed the court’s dedication to balancing diverse viewpoints in resolving sensitive disputes.
Justice Rohinton Nariman condemned the surge of legal challenges concerning religious sites, asserting they contradict the Places of Worship Act, which preserves the status of worship places as of August 15, 1947. He warned such lawsuits could incite communal discord and urged their dismissal, emphasizing adherence to the rule of law.
![[Gyanvapi Case] 'Utilize Non-Invasive Methodology': SC's 2023 Verdict Boosts Survey Orders for Disputed Sites](https://i0.wp.com/lawchakra.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/image-3-2.jpg?resize=447%2C367&ssl=1)
The Supreme Court’s 2023 ruling in the Gyanvapi case legitimized surveys of disputed religious sites, providing a precedent for similar cases. The decision, permitting the Archaeological Survey of India to investigate the mosque complex, has incited claims over additional contested worship places, leading to escalating tensions and legal disputes across the country.
Former Chief Justice DY Chandrachud clarified that his previous comments on prayer in relation to the Ayodhya dispute were misconstrued. He emphasized that his faith does not influence legal judgments and highlighted the importance of impartiality in judicial roles. Chandrachud advocates for respect among various faiths while ensuring justice for all.
Former Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud highlighted the complexities of judicial appointments in India, emphasizing the collaboration between the judiciary and government. He addressed concerns over delays, stressing the importance of a robust dialogue and acknowledging the role of multiple stakeholders. Chandrachud maintained that this multi-layered process ensures fairness and upholds judicial independence.