Fri Sep 13 09:48:00 UTC 2024: ## CJAR’s Outrage Over PM Modi’s Visit to CJI’s Residence Sparks Controversy

The Campaign for Judicial Accountability and Reforms (CJAR) has issued a strong statement condemning Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Chief Justice of India (CJI) D.Y. Chandrachud’s residence for Ganesh Puja on September 11th.

The CJAR claims that this interaction between the two constitutional functionaries sets a dangerous precedent, potentially undermining judicial independence and raising concerns about the separation of powers. They argue that the close association between the judiciary and political leadership could compromise the judiciary’s ability to impartially adjudicate cases involving the government.

However, critics point out that this is not the first instance of such interactions. Similar events, like Iftar parties hosted by former Prime Ministers at Rashtrapati Bhavan and their residences, have been attended by previous CJIs without sparking similar concerns. The outcry against the Ganesh Puja visit appears to be driven by a selective outrage targeting Hindu festivals, they argue.

The CJAR’s statement has further fueled the debate surrounding its own credibility and motives. The organization, founded by Shanti Bhushan and his son Prashant Bhushan, has been embroiled in controversy previously, including being fined by the Supreme Court for filing a frivolous petition against a judge.

The CJAR’s office is located in the same building where a meeting allegedly planning anti-Hindu riots was held in 2019. This has raised questions about the organization’s agenda and its commitment to upholding the principles of judicial independence.

The incident has once again highlighted the sensitive issue of the relationship between the judiciary and the executive in India. While the CJAR claims that this event threatens the democratic principles of judicial independence, its critics argue that the organization’s concerns are politically motivated and lack genuine commitment to the cause of judicial accountability.

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