Thu Sep 12 16:59:40 UTC 2024: ## PM Modi’s Visit to CJI’s Home Sparks Controversy
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Chief Justice of India (CJI) D Y Chandrachud’s residence for Ganpati Puja has sparked a heated debate, with the Opposition raising concerns about the judiciary’s transparency and code of conduct.
Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut, from the Uddhav Thackeray faction, expressed apprehension about the fairness of the Supreme Court, particularly in a case challenging the Maharashtra Speaker’s decision to recognize the Eknath Shinde faction as the true Shiv Sena. Raut advised the CJI to recuse himself from the case, arguing that a “custodian of the Constitution” meeting politicians could raise doubts about impartiality.
Raut pointed to several recent cases where the judiciary ruled against opposition leaders, suggesting a pattern of bias. He also criticized the Prime Minister’s choice to visit the CJI’s residence for Ganpati festivities, questioning the optics and the potential impact on public perception of judicial impartiality.
Other opposition leaders, including Priyanka Chaturvedi and Indira Jaising, echoed these concerns, questioning the independence of the CJI and calling for the Supreme Court Bar Association to condemn the PM’s visit.
The BJP, however, defended the Prime Minister’s actions, stating that the visit was purely for cultural purposes and part of the festive tradition. BJP leader Shehzad Poonawalla criticized the opposition for politicizing a religious event and for imputing motives to the CJI.
The debate highlights the delicate balance between the judiciary and the executive branch, and raises important questions about maintaining public trust in the judicial system. The opposition’s concerns, while disputed by the BJP, underscore the need for a robust code of conduct and transparency in the judiciary.
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