Thu Sep 12 19:58:09 UTC 2024: ## PM Modi’s Visit to CJI’s Residence Sparks Row: Opposition Alleges Compromise of Judicial Independence

**New Delhi:** Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud’s residence for Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations has ignited a political firestorm, with the Opposition accusing the PM of compromising the separation of powers between the executive and the judiciary.

A video and pictures of PM Modi performing puja at the CJI’s residence emerged on Wednesday, September 11, prompting strong reactions from the Opposition and some Supreme Court lawyers.

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut expressed concerns about the optics of the meeting, suggesting that the CJI should recuse himself from a case involving the ongoing conflict between the Shiv Sena factions, as the PM is a party to the case. Raut argued that the meeting could create doubt in people’s minds about the judiciary’s impartiality.

Priyanka Chaturvedi, a Congress MP, also raised concerns about the timing of the visit, suggesting that it could influence the outcome of the Maharashtra case, which is currently pending before the CJI.

Senior lawyer Indira Jaising went further, accusing the CJI of compromising judicial independence by accepting the PM’s visit. She called for the Supreme Court Bar Association to condemn the event publicly.

The BJP, however, vehemently defended the PM’s visit, terming the Opposition’s reaction as “reckless” and “baseless aspersions” on the highest court. BJP national general secretary BL Santhosh asserted that the event was a “devoted Ganapathi Pooja” and not a social gathering, criticizing the Opposition’s “left-liberal” approach.

Shiv Sena Rajya Sabha MP Milind Deora also slammed the critics, accusing them of hypocrisy, pointing out their selective praise of the Supreme Court’s credibility only when it favors their interests.

The incident has sparked a heated debate on the appropriate boundaries between the executive and the judiciary, and the potential for perceived conflicts of interest in such meetings. The Opposition’s concerns highlight the delicate balance required to maintain public trust in the judiciary’s independence.

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