Sun Nov 10 07:37:47 UTC 2024: ## Retired CJI DY Chandrachud Warns of Private Interest Group Pressure on Judiciary
**New Delhi:** Former Chief Justice of India (CJI), D.Y. Chandrachud, has raised concerns about the increasing influence of private interest groups on the judiciary, beyond just political pressure. Speaking at a Times of India event, Chandrachud highlighted the tactics employed by these groups to sway judicial decisions.
According to him, these groups leverage news outlets, television channels, and social media to create a favorable environment for their interests. They use propaganda and even resort to trolling and online attacks to pressure judges into making specific rulings.
Chandrachud emphasized that judging the independence of the judiciary solely based on the number of judgments against the government is insufficient. He asserted that his own decisions have always been based on his judicial understanding, and not influenced by any particular ideology.
While acknowledging the need for collaboration between the judiciary and the government on administrative matters, Chandrachud stressed that disagreements between the two branches are crucial in resolving issues related to judicial infrastructure and government funding. He cited the recent disagreement between the Supreme Court Collegium and the government over the appointment of lawyer Saurabh Kirpal as a High Court judge, as an example of such differences.
Chandrachud clarified that a judge’s personal life, including their sexuality or their partner’s nationality, should not influence their decisions. He also emphasized the importance of clear and well-written judgments, arguing that poorly drafted pronouncements can disillusion those seeking justice.