Ex-CJI Defends Supreme Court’s Independence Amid Criticism

Aakhir Tak – In Shorts

1. Former CJI Chandrachud emphasized Supreme Court’s independence.
2. Sanjay Raut blamed him for the MVA alliance’s electoral defeat.
3. Chandrachud stated no party could dictate the court’s agenda.
4. The Supreme Court ruled on significant constitutional cases during his tenure.
5. He stressed that the judiciary operates without external influence.

Aakhir Tak – In Depth

Background

Former Chief Justice DY Chandrachud responded to remarks by Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut, who accused him of contributing to the Maha Vikas Aghadi’s defeat in Maharashtra. Raut alleged that the court’s delay in ruling on MLA disqualification petitions led to political instability.

Raut’s Allegations

Raut claimed that by not prioritizing key political cases, the Supreme Court enabled political defections that weakened the MVA alliance. He accused the judiciary of failing to uphold the rule of law.

Chandrachud’s Response

Chandrachud firmly defended the court’s independence, stating that no political party or individual can dictate which cases are heard. He highlighted the complexity of balancing older constitutional cases with recent ones.

Importance of Judicial Independence

He emphasized that during his tenure, the court decided on 38 constitutional bench cases. Notably, the court addressed significant issues such as the Uttar Pradesh Madrasa Act and the Aligarh Muslim University case. He rejected any notion that the judiciary follows external agendas.

Aakhir Tak – Key Takeaways to Remember

• Former CJI defended the judiciary’s independence.
• Sanjay Raut criticized the court’s case prioritization.
• Chandrachud highlighted the importance of constitutional cases.

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