Political Temperature Rises as PM Meets CJI
A significant political upheaval is unfolding in India. A picture has surfaced of the Prime Minister, the head of the executive branch, and the Chief Justice of India (CJI), the head of the judiciary, together worshipping Lord Ganpati. This image has ignited speculation in political circles, with some questioning whether justice can remain unbiased when the executive and judiciary appear united. However, such conclusions are mere speculation.
Independence of Democratic Institutions
A key question arises: Are the Prime Minister and the Chief Justice enemies? In a democracy, the executive, judiciary, and legislature are meant to function independently, without dominance from any one branch. However, some view this image as a sign of the executive and judiciary aligning. The different interpretations of this picture have sparked widespread discussion.
Has This Happened Before?
The release of this picture has led both the opposition and ruling parties to ask: how can justice now be expected? Shiv Sena’s Sanjay Raut questioned whether decisions will still be made impartially when those responsible for justice are involved. This single image has generated a variety of interpretations and reactions.
Ganpati celebrations are taking place across India from September 7th to 17th, with special enthusiasm in Maharashtra, Goa, Central, and South India. During this period, people invited each other to their homes, and such was the case when CJI Chandrachud hosted an event, inviting many guests, including the Prime Minister. Along with different judges and officers, the Prime Minister attended the event, participated in worship, and shared pictures. This has fueled political rhetoric and harsh commentary.
Statements from the Opposition and BJP
Prashant Bhushan expressed shock in a tweet, questioning why CJI Chandrachud allowed Prime Minister Modi to visit his house for a private meeting. Others echoed similar sentiments, analyzing the body language between the two. On the other hand, the BJP defended the meeting, citing Indian culture’s tradition of welcoming guests warmly. The party highlighted that when a guest is invited, it is customary to greet them respectfully, including world leaders when they meet the Indian Prime Minister.
The BJP also raised a counterpoint: if this meeting is criticized, what about when Prime Minister Manmohan Singh used to host Iftar parties? In 2009, CJI KG Balakrishnan attended such a party without controversy. The BJP stressed that the issue is not about the Prime Minister visiting the CJI’s home but about certain individuals feeling uncomfortable with the CJI participating in religious ceremonies like Ganpati worship.
Conclusion
The meeting between the CJI and the Prime Minister does not pose a threat to the independence of India’s judicial system.
