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.
The rise of social media has enabled judges to engage with the public, enhancing transparency but raising concerns about impartiality and ethics. This shift influences legal proceedings, public perception, and judicial roles. This blog examines the impact of judges’ social media presence on the judiciary and its evolving role in the digital era.
The Supreme Court Collegium, led by CJI Sanjiv Khanna, has initiated reforms to enhance judicial appointments, barring close relatives of judges from High Court positions and enabling direct interactions with candidates. Senior Advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi supports these changes, highlighting the need for transparency and objectivity amid concerns about nepotism in the judiciary.
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 Supreme Court collegium, led by CJI Sanjiv Khanna, conducted interviews for high court judgeships to improve candidate evaluation. This follows controversies involving Justice Shekhar Kumar Yadav’s remarks at a VHP event, raising concerns about judicial impartiality. The collegium aims to enhance transparency and integrity in judicial appointments through personal interactions.
Justice S. Ravindra Bhat’s retirement on October 20 allowed Justice A.S. Oka to join the Supreme Court Collegium, now led by Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna. This reorganization follows the former Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud’s retirement. The collegium plays a vital role in judicial appointments, impacting transparency and autonomy in the Indian judiciary.
On November 9, 2024, a ceremonial bench will honor CJI D.Y. Chandrachud on his final working day, marking his impactful tenure focused on judicial transparency, inclusivity, and technological advancement. Justice Sanjiv Khanna, his successor, is expected to continue these reforms while addressing current judicial challenges. Chandrachud’s legacy will shape future judicial practices.
D.Y. Chandrachud, the current Chief Justice of India, will retire on November 10, 2024, after a two-year term. Subsequent Chief Justices include Justices J.B. Pardiwala and Surya Kant, with most serving less than two years. The upcoming CJIs will handle significant cases and ensure representation within the judiciary until 2031.
Today (August 1), The Kerala High Court has launched live streaming of its Full Bench proceedings to enhance transparency and public access in the Indian judiciary. Using its own dedicated platform, the court aims to demystify the judicial process and make it more approachable for the common citizen. This initiative sets a standard for judicial transparency and inclusivity nationwide.
