Public debate over PM-CJI puja meet linked to 1997 judicial values document
New Delhi: Public discussions and concerns within the legal fraternity regarding Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Chief Justice of India (CJI) D.Y. Chandrachud's residence for a Ganapati puja is rooted in a 1997 document outlining judicial values. This document, titled the Restatement of Values of Judicial Life, was adopted by the Supreme Court during a Full Court Meeting on May 7, 1997.
The 16-point document serves as a guide for the expected conduct of judges in both the Supreme Court and High Courts. The first principle emphasises the importance of judicial impartiality, advising judges to avoid any acts that could erode public confidence in the judiciary. The document also recommends that judges maintain a "degree of aloofness consistent with the dignity of [their] office."
The Campaign for Judicial Accountability and Reforms, represented by advocate Prashant Bhushan, highlighted the importance of maintaining proper boundaries between the judiciary and the executive, citing former Chief Justice M.N. Venkatachaliah's stance that while the judiciary and executive must maintain a correct relationship, cordiality should not compromise the separation of powers.
Notable legal figures have voiced their opinions on the matter. Senior advocate Kapil Sibal acknowledged CJI Chandrachud's integrity but expressed concerns about public perception, stating that such incidents could lead to gossip and undermine the institution. Senior advocate Indira Jaising criticized the CJI's actions, claiming it compromised the independence of the judiciary. Meanwhile, Bar Council of India chairperson Manan Kumar Mishra dismissed the controversy, stating that the puja was a religious and social event that would not influence court judgments.
Let the Truth be known. If you read VB and like VB, please be a VB Supporter and Help us deliver the Truth to one and all.
FIR registered against Karnataka seer over his remarks on voting power to Muslims
Bengaluru (PTI): An FIR has been registered against Vishwa Vokkaliga Mahasamastana Math seer Kumara Chandrashekaranatha Swamiji for his remarks on voting power to Muslims, police said on Friday.
He made the statement during a protest meeting organised by the Bharatiya Kisan Sangh here on Tuesday against notices issued by Karnataka's Waqf board.
Urging everyone to unite to protect farmers and their land, Swamiji said that a law should be brought in where Muslims community don't have the voting power.
Stating that it should be ensured there is no Waqf board, he said someone taking away someone else's land is not "Dharma".
"...everyone should fight against injustice being caused to farmers...it is said that the Waqf board can claim anyone's land. It is a big injustice...someone taking away someone else's land is not Dharma... So, everyone should fight to ensure that farmers' land remains with them," the seer had said.
However, on Wednesday, Swamiji expressed regret over his statement, calling it a "slip of tongue".
He said Muslims are also citizens of this country, and they too have voting rights like others.
Based on the complaint by a social worker, the FIR was registered against him on Wednesday at Upparpet police station here, police said.
"We have registered a case against him (Swamiji) under section 299 (Deliberate and malicious acts, intended to outrage religious feelings of any class by insulting its religion or religious beliefs) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita," a senior police officer said.
