Thu Sep 12 07:56:00 UTC 2024: ## Political Row Erupts Over PM Modi’s Visit to Chief Justice’s Residence for Ganesh Puja
A video of Prime Minister Narendra Modi attending Ganesh Puja at the residence of Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud has sparked controversy, with opposition leaders criticizing the meeting.
The incident took place yesterday, with the Prime Minister sharing photos of himself, the Chief Justice, and his wife praying before a Ganesh idol. He expressed his wishes for happiness, prosperity, and good health for all.
However, several opposition leaders have raised concerns about the meeting, arguing that it sends an “uncomfortable message” and raises doubts about the judiciary’s independence.
Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) leader Sanjay Raut questioned the timing of the visit, considering the ongoing case between the two factions of the Shiv Sena. He suggested that the Chief Justice should recuse himself from the case due to the perceived proximity.
Priyanka Chaturvedi, another party leader, echoed Raut’s concerns, highlighting the repeated adjournments in the case and suggesting a possible bias due to the meeting.
RJD leader Manoj Jha echoed similar sentiments, stating that the independence of institutions should not be just theoretical but visible.
The BJP, however, has fiercely defended the meeting, arguing that attending Ganesh Puja is not a crime and that judges and politicians often share dais at various functions.
Union Minister Bhupender Yadav pointed out the hypocrisy of those criticizing the visit, stating that the same people who applaud Prime Ministers attending Iftar parties are now questioning the Prime Minister’s presence at a religious gathering.
BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla further emphasized that the judiciary and politicians have often shared platforms, citing the example of a 2009 Iftar party attended by then Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and then Chief Justice of India KG Balakrishnan.
The incident has sparked a heated debate on the role of the judiciary and the perceived influence of political figures. While some view the visit as a simple gesture of faith and social interaction, others see it as a potential compromise of the judiciary’s independence. The controversy is likely to continue as the political landscape in India remains polarized.
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