Sat Apr 19 08:20:31 UTC 2025: **Former Supreme Court Judge Highlights Judicial Power in Constitutional Matters**
CHENNAI, INDIA – April 19, 2025 – Former Supreme Court Justice Jasti Chelameswar asserted Saturday that the judiciary’s power to strike down laws extends to directing constitutional authorities to fulfill their duties. Speaking at a lecture commemorating the 75th anniversary of India’s Constitution, Justice Chelameswar responded to a question about Vice President Jagdeep Dhankar’s criticism of the Supreme Court’s setting of a timeline for presidential action on bills. He argued that the ability to declare laws unconstitutional logically implies the power to direct public officials to perform their constitutional functions.
Justice Chelameswar’s lecture, hosted by the Rakesh Law Foundation and Rojah Muthiah Research Library, also focused on the need for introspection rather than mere celebration of the Constitution’s anniversary. He cited the high number of constitutional amendments, excessive election spending, and judicial backlog as serious concerns. The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Justice G.R. Swaminathan of the Madras High Court and Tamil Nadu Minister P.K. Sekarbabu.
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