Advocate Mathews J. Nedumpara delivers a sharp critique of India’s judicial appointment process, alleging entrenched nepotism within the Collegium system and warning that judicial independence has given way to opacity, favoritism, and institutional capture. He slams how Four-Fifths of High Court CJs are appointed
Advocate Mathews J. Nedumpara petitioned the Supreme Court to reform the current collegium system and senior advocate designations, alleging favoritism and elitism. Despite being cautioned by the Chief Justice, he argued that the system unfairly benefits a small elite, violating constitutional rights. The petitioners demand an overhaul for enhanced judicial fairness and equality.
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.