In response to growing political speculation surrounding Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent Ganesh Puja visit to his residence, Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud addressed concerns at the Loksatta annual lecture, clarifying that no judicial matters were discussed during the meeting. The CJI emphasized that regular interactions between political and judicial leaders are standard, intended to address logistical and budgetary issues for judicial infrastructure.
Judiciary-Executive Meetings: Necessary for Infrastructure, Not Influence
Addressing the reasons behind such interactions, CJI Chandrachud explained, “Chief Ministers and Chief Justices of high courts regularly meet to discuss crucial budgetary and infrastructural needs, as judicial funding is typically handled by the state.” Citing his previous experience as Chief Justice of the Allahabad High Court, he illustrated that these discussions prioritize court infrastructure and operational needs rather than judicial decisions.
“With 10 projects under development, the Chief Minister briefs on priorities and funding details. It’s simply impractical to handle this over letters,” he noted, underscoring the need for robust dialogue for efficient judicial operations.
Opposition Raises Concerns Over PM’s Presence
The visuals of PM Modi’s visit sparked a political debate, with Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut suggesting that such interactions create doubt and could potentially influence ongoing cases. Raut argued, “It seems customary for judges to recuse themselves from cases involving parties with whom they share connections. In this case, CJI Chandrachud should consider dissociating himself.”
Similarly, RJD leader and MP Manoj Jha expressed discomfort with the event’s public portrayal, commenting that public confidence in institutional independence must be upheld. “Ganpati Puja is a personal matter, but broadcasting it publicly raises questions about impartiality,” he said.
BJP’s Response: Defending Secular Celebrations
Responding to the criticism, Union Minister Bhupender Yadav defended the secular nature of the gathering, pointing out that Prime Ministers often attend religious gatherings of all faiths, including iftar. “The executive and judiciary performing Ganpati Poojan highlights India’s secularism. The same people who laud iftar presence seem troubled by this,” he noted in a statement on X.
BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla also cited precedent, mentioning former PM Manmohan Singh’s Iftar in 2009 attended by then-CJI KG Balakrishnan. The BJP emphasized that such gatherings transcend politics and focus on fostering mutual respect.
CJI Chandrachud’s Final Months in Office
With CJI DY Chandrachud’s retirement approaching on November 10, the role of Chief Justice will pass to Justice Sanjiv Khanna. As the judiciary and executive continue to navigate public perception, Chandrachud’s remarks aim to reassure the public that the independence of the judiciary remains intact, even amidst a climate of scrutiny.