During his felicitation event in Amravati, his hometown, CJI B R Gavai spoke about the importance of the Constitution after becoming the 52nd Chief Justice of India: “Constitution of India is supreme, all three wings of democracy work under it.”
Prashant Bhushan criticizes the BJP for overlooking attacks on democracy while recalling the 1975 Emergency, likening it to an ongoing “undeclared Emergency” that restricts rights and weakens institutions. He highlights the misuse of investigative agencies, erosion of judicial independence, and media compliance as threats to democracy, urging a reaffirmation of constitutional values.
Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Arvind Sawant criticized the BJP for likening the current political climate to the Emergency era, asserting it reflects an “undeclared Emergency.” He condemned the judiciary’s inaction on anti-defection laws and questioned its independence, accusing it of failing to protect the Constitution and uphold democratic principles amid alleged government interference.
Justice Abhay Oka of the Supreme Court highlighted concerns about the rise of “mob rule” in India, where politicians promise death penalty for offenders, despite only the judiciary having the authority. He emphasized the need to preserve the judiciary’s independence and ensure timely, fair judgments, in light of recent events. Other speakers emphasized the importance of safeguarding constitutional values through education and awareness.
Today, 2nd July, Lawyers in New Delhi oppose a directive to postpone final orders during judicial vacations, sparking controversy. The advisory allegedly prohibits vacation judges from issuing final orders, leading to concerns over delays and a potential impact on judicial independence. This move has prompted objections from legal circles and highlighted the balance between administrative efficiency and timely justice.
Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud “If by political pressure you mean pressure from the government, I can tell you that in my 24 years as a judge, I have never felt any political pressure from those in power. This is because, in India, our democratic traditions ensure that we live lives relatively isolated from the political arm of the government.”
Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud, speaking at an event in London, stated that in his 24 years as a judge, he has never felt direct political pressure from the government. He emphasized the need for judges to consider the societal and political impacts of their decisions. CJI also discussed the impact of technology on the judiciary, addressing social media criticism and the need for legislative audits to assess laws’ impact on the judicial system.
Soli J. Sorabjee, an eminent jurist, advocated the Basic Structure Doctrine to protect federalism and judiciary independence. Justice Surya Kant highlighted Sorabjee’s contributions in a memorial lecture, emphasizing the doctrine’s role in safeguarding fundamental principles. He also discussed the concept of dharma and its importance in ensuring judicial independence and reinforcing human rights.