New Delhi: Former Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud said that higher courts in India, particularly the Supreme Court, have consistently upheld personal liberties, reinforcing public trust in the judiciary. Speaking on BBC’s HARDtalk with veteran journalist Stephen Sackur, Chandrachud addressed a range of challenging questions. The discussion covered topics such as gender representation in the judiciary and major rulings, including the Ram Janmabhoomi and Article 370 cases.
Elitism
Former Chief Justice DY Chandrachud rejected claims of judicial elitism, highlighting increasing female representation in district courts. He attributed the higher judiciary’s composition to past legal trends and noted ongoing progress. Addressing his lineage, he spoke of merit, saying he entered court only after his father, ex-CJI YV Chandrachud, retired.
Political pressure
Chandrachud dismissed claims of political pressure, citing India’s diverse political landscape. He highlighted the Supreme Court’s role in safeguarding personal liberties, referring to Rahul Gandhi’s conviction pause and numerous bail grants. He said that the judiciary remains independent, earning public trust through its commitment to justice.
Article 370
He defended the Article 370 verdict, citing its transitional nature in the Constitution. He spoke of the restoration of democracy in Jammu and Kashmir and the government’s assurance of statehood. He rejected criticism, asserting that the Supreme Court upheld constitutional principles and ensured democratic accountability in the region.
CAA
He defended the delay in hearing the CAA case, citing the need to balance old and new cases. He highlighted India’s power to invalidate laws, unlike the UK, and noted disposing of many long-pending constitutional cases. He assured that the CAA case would be addressed.
Ram temple verdict
He dismissed claims about praying before the Ram Temple verdict, stressing that social media misrepresents facts. He affirmed his faith but spoke of judicial impartiality. Meditation and prayer, he said, help maintain equanimity, ensuring fair and equal justice for all religious groups and communities in India.
PM’s visit
He downplayed the controversy over PM Modi’s Ganesh Chaturthi visit, calling it a routine courtesy. He spoke of judicial independence, citing rulings against the government before and after the visit. He clarified that the judiciary upholds the rule of law, not acting as the opposition in parliament.
