Published on: March 29, 2024 at 07:55 IST
Prime Minister Narendra Modi in response to a letter penned by hundreds of lawyers and several bar associations to Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, expressing apprehensions about perceived efforts to undermine the judiciary’s autonomy through political and professional pressures.
Taking to the platform X, PM Modi condemned what he termed as the “vintage Congress culture” of intimidation and coercion. He lambasted the Congress for advocating a “committed judiciary” half a century ago, highlighting their hypocrisy in demanding loyalty to their interests while neglecting the nation’s welfare. PM Modi’s remarks resonated with his assertion that a vast majority of the Indian population, numbering 140 crores, rejects the Congress party.
PM Modi’s comments follow a letter signed by over 600 lawyers, including legal stalwarts like Harish Salve and Bar Council chairperson Manan Kumar Mishra, alleging a concerted effort to pressure the judiciary and tarnish the reputation of courts, particularly in cases involving political corruption.
Union Minister and Arunachal West candidate Kiren Rijiju echoed PM Modi’s sentiments, asserting that voices of reason were now emerging in the open. He criticized the Congress for championing a “committed judiciary” and exerting undue influence on constitutional authorities.
In a swift rejoinder, Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge criticized PM Modi for his remarks on the judiciary, questioning the propriety of his comments. He countered by raising pertinent questions about the judiciary’s independence and cited the unprecedented press conference held by four senior Supreme Court judges during PM Modi’s tenure.
The All Manipur Bar Association also expressed concern about attempts to discredit the judiciary with baseless allegations and urged Chief Justice Chandrachud to uphold the judiciary’s integrity.
Reacting to PM Modi’s comments, Congress leader Jairam Ramesh accused the Prime Minister of hypocrisy, alleging orchestrated attacks on the judiciary under the guise of defending it. Ramesh highlighted recent setbacks faced by PM Modi’s government in the Supreme Court, including scrutiny of the electoral bonds scheme.
As political tensions escalate, the focus remains on Chief Justice Chandrachud’s pivotal leadership during these challenging times, with calls for the Supreme Court to assert its authority and safeguard judicial independence against external pressures.