Thu Sep 12 21:48:22 UTC 2024: ## Political Row Erupts After PM Modi Visits CJI Chandrachud for Ganesh Puja
**NEW DELHI** – A video showing Prime Minister Narendra Modi visiting Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud’s residence for a Ganesh Puja on Wednesday has sparked controversy. While BJP leaders have defended the visit, prominent advocates have raised concerns about the judiciary’s independence.
The visit comes just weeks before CJI Chandrachud is slated to retire on November 10th. The video shows the CJI and his wife welcoming PM Modi, with the PM later tweeting about the visit and expressing his blessings.
Senior advocate Indira Jaising criticized the visit, stating it compromises the separation of powers between the executive and judiciary. She called it a “publicly displayed compromise of the CJI’s independence from the Executive.”
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut echoed concerns, questioning whether the PM’s visit could be interpreted as “doubtful” given the judiciary’s role as guardian of the Constitution. Senior Advocate Prashant Bhushan also expressed alarm, stating the visit sends a “bad signal” to the judiciary.
BJP leaders, however, have dismissed the criticism. BL Santhosh, BJP’s national general secretary (organisation), labeled the concerns as “whining” by “left liberals” and emphasized the religious nature of the gathering.
The controversy has ignited debate on social media, with many questioning whether the shared participation in the puja compromises the independence of both the executive and judiciary.
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