LI Network
Published on: January 2, 2024 at 11:10 IST
Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud defended the collegium system for appointing judges, stating that efforts have been made to enhance transparency in the process. In an exclusive interview with PTI, the CJI addressed criticisms, emphasizing that steps have been taken to ensure due consultation and maintain objectivity in decision-making.
Chandrachud refuted claims that the collegium system lacks transparency, asserting that significant measures have been implemented to enhance openness. He acknowledged the need to maintain privacy during deliberations, particularly when considering judges for Supreme Court appointments, as the discussions involve the careers of sitting high court judges.
The CJI highlighted the challenges of publicizing deliberations, stating, “Those deliberations, if they have to take place in a free and candid atmosphere, can’t be the subject matter of video recording or documentation. That is not the system which the Indian Constitution has adopted.”
Addressing the diversity of Indian society, Chandrachud emphasized the importance of trusting the decision-making process. Despite acknowledging that criticism of the process is easy, he shared that, having been part of the system for several years, every effort is made to ensure due consultation before judge appointments.
Chandrachud, bound by the Constitution and legal precedents, underscored the collegium system’s role in judicial appointments since 1993. He expressed the collegium’s commitment to transparency and objectivity, highlighting the public disclosure of resolutions and parameters used in selecting judges.
The CJI noted the Supreme Court’s Centre for Research and Planning’s role in providing comprehensive data on judges under consideration, contributing to the collegium’s evaluation process.
The circulation of this information among collegium members aids in the thorough assessment of judges nominated for appointments.
