Wed Oct 30 00:58:35 UTC 2024: ## CJI clarifies meetings with government officials are not “deals,” emphasizes judicial independence
**New Delhi:** Chief Justice of India (CJI) D.Y. Chandrachud has clarified that meetings between government officials and the judiciary are not indicative of any “deals” being struck, and are a sign of “political maturity.” Addressing an event in Mumbai, CJI Chandrachud emphasized the importance of dialogue between the judiciary and government, stating that such interactions are crucial for efficient administration, especially with regard to budgetary matters.
“We have to meet with the Chief Ministers because they allocate budgets for the judiciary,” CJI said, adding that “relying solely on letters would not be effective.” He further stressed that such meetings are a sign of political maturity, and there has never been an instance where a Chief Minister attempted to influence a pending case during such interactions.
The CJI underscored the distinction between administrative relationships and judicial proceedings, highlighting that the judiciary’s independence remains unaffected by social interactions with government officials.
These statements come in the wake of controversy surrounding Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the CJI’s residence for Ganesh Puja. While the Prime Minister described the visit as a personal gesture, some opposition leaders raised concerns about the potential for undue influence, given ongoing legal cases related to the Maharashtra political crisis.
CJI Chandrachud’s comments reaffirm the judiciary’s commitment to maintaining its independence and upholding the principles of justice.
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