Justice Surya Kant defended the Indian Collegium system, emphasizing its role in maintaining judicial independence despite imperfections. He urged for increased transparency and moral clarity in judicial decisions. Kant highlighted the judiciary’s crucial role in democracy, advocating for self-restraint and the preservation of justice, while addressing the impact of technology and societal inequalities.
Justice BV Nagarathna is set to become the first woman Chief Justice of India, joining the Supreme Court Collegium on May 25, 2025. Currently the fifth most senior judge, she will influence judicial appointments until her retirement on October 29, 2027. Her tenure signifies a historic development in India’s judiciary.
Prayagraj, April 22 – The Bar Association of the Allahabad High Court has strongly opposed the alleged nepotism in the appointment of judges. In a firm stand against the current selection process, the association passed a resolution during an emergency meeting held on Monday under the leadership of Bar Association President Anil Tiwari.
Former Union Law Minister Ashwani Kumar advocates for replacing India’s collegium system with a better mechanism for judicial appointments, akin to the NJAC. He argues that judicial independence isn’t compromised by having government representatives in the appointment process. Kumar emphasizes addressing increasing challenges to parliamentary laws and calls for reforms to enhance judicial integrity.
Senior Advocate Harish Salve has once again criticized the Supreme Court’s Collegium system, calling himself a “trenchant critic” of it. He said that the system is “not equipped” to handle cases like the one involving Delhi High Court judge Yashwant Varma. The controversy revolves around reports that large amounts of cash were recovered from Justice Varma’s house. Mr. Salve has now called for the judge’s transfer to the Allahabad High Court to be put on hold until more clarity emerges.
NEW DELHI: Today, 19th March, The Supreme Court of India is re-evaluating its 2017 ruling in Indira Jaising v. Supreme Court, which had established guidelines for designating lawyers as Senior Advocates. A special bench comprising Justices AS Oka, Ujjal Bhuyan, and SVN Bhatti is hearing the matter, with Solicitor General (SG) Tushar Mehta appearing for the Supreme Court’s administrative side.
Today, On 3rd February, Retired Supreme Court judge Hrishikesh Roy expressed concern over the optics of PM Modi’s visit to Chief Justice DY Chandrachud’s home for Ganpati Puja, calling it “disturbing.” He clarified, however, that no court-related discussions took place during the visit. Roy emphasized that such events could have been avoided to prevent any perception of undue influence. The incident raised questions about the separation of powers and judicial independence.
Justice AS Oka raised concerns about media trials and public comments on ongoing cases, saying they affect the justice system. He spoke at a webinar by the All India Lawyers’ Association for Justice, stressing the need for a fair and responsible judiciary. The discussion focused on keeping court cases free from outside influence. He also highlighted the importance of judicial independence and accountability.