Today, On 22nd April, The Supreme Court said High Courts cannot use the special power under Article 142 meant only for the top court. It rejected a plea and added that only the Supreme Court can give such orders for full justice in any case.
The Lokpal has dismissed a corruption complaint against former Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud, citing lack of jurisdiction. The anti-corruption Inspector clarified that sitting judges and the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court do not fall within its purview under Section 14 of the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act. This provision restricts the Lokpal’s authority to probe complaints against such high-ranking judicial officials.
The Supreme Court collegium started meeting lawyers being considered for High Court judgeship for the first time. To reduce nepotism, they are avoiding recommending candidates who have close relatives in the judiciary and are giving more chances to first-generation lawyers. These meetings help assess candidates’ suitability better. This step aims to make judicial appointments fairer and more transparent.
The Union government appointed Chief Justices to eight High Courts, as announced by Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal. Key appointments include Justice Manmohan at Delhi, Justice Rajiv Shakdher at Himachal Pradesh, and Justice Suresh Kait at Madhya Pradesh. This follows earlier recommendations from the Supreme Court Collegium.