New Delhi: Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud addressed the controversy surrounding Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to his home for Ganesh Puja, asserting that no judicial matters are discussed during such meetings. Speaking at the Loksatta annual lecture, he emphasized the importance of regular interactions between Chief Justices and Chief Ministers for administrative purposes, such as discussing state projects and infrastructure needs.
Chandrachud clarified that the meetings are standard practice and do not involve discussions about pending cases, highlighting the maturity of India’s political system. He noted that these gatherings occur for various reasons, including cultural celebrations like the Ganesh festival, and should not raise suspicions regarding the judiciary’s independence.
The visit had drawn criticism from opposition figures, including Sanjay Raut from Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray), who suggested that the Chief Justice should recuse himself from cases related to political disputes involving Shiv Sena factions. RJD leader Manoj Jha echoed concerns about the implications of such high-profile meetings, suggesting they could undermine institutional independence.
In response to the criticisms, BJP officials defended the meeting, asserting that it reflects the strength of Indian secularism and the judiciary’s engagement with the executive. Union minister Bhupender Yadav pointed out that similar interactions had previously occurred without controversy. Chief Justice Chandrachud is set to retire on November 10, with Justice Sanjiv Khanna poised to succeed him.
