Thu Sep 12 15:58:08 UTC 2024: ## PM Modi’s Visit to CJI’s Residence Sparks Controversy
**New Delhi, India** – Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud’s residence for Ganpati puja has sparked controversy, with opposition leaders and lawyers raising concerns about potential conflict of interest and compromised judicial independence.
The visit, which saw Modi participating in a puja at Chandrachud’s residence on September 11, has led to accusations that the CJI may be unable to deliver fair judgements due to his close association with the executive branch.
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut expressed concern about the CJI’s impartiality in a pending case involving the Shiv Sena, suggesting that he should recuse himself due to his “openly visible” relations with the Prime Minister.
Senior advocate Indira Jaising went further, stating that the CJI has “compromised the separation of powers” by hosting the Prime Minister at his residence. She urged the Supreme Court Bar Association to condemn the event.
Senior Supreme Court lawyer Prashant Bhushan echoed these sentiments, finding it “shocking” that the CJI would allow a private meeting with Modi at his home. Both Bhushan and Jaising highlighted the importance of maintaining an “arms length separation” between the judiciary and executive to ensure judicial independence.
Meanwhile, BJP leaders defended the visit, with Sambit Patra criticizing the opposition’s reaction and highlighting instances of interactions between other political figures and the judiciary.
Shehzad Poonawalla emphasized that attending Ganpati puja is not a crime and pointed out that such interactions between judiciary and politicians are common.
However, the controversy continues to simmer, with opposition leaders expressing concern about the potential impact of the visit on the judicial system’s integrity. The case involving the Shiv Sena, which is currently before the Supreme Court, is expected to be a key focal point as the controversy unfolds.
First Piper 