Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi, Dec 26: Calling attention to the growing number of attacks on the judiciary, Chief Justice of India (CJI) N.V. Ramana stressed the importance of law enforcement agencies dealing with them effectively on Sunday.
He made the remarks during his delivery of the fifth Late Sri Lavu Venkateswarlu Endowment Lecture.
“In recent times, physical attacks on judicial officers are on the rise. At times, there are also concerted campaigns in print and social media against judges if parties do not get a favourable order. These attacks appear to be sponsored and synchronised. The law enforcing agencies, particularly the specialised agencies, need to deal with such malicious attacks effectively. It is unfortunate that unless the Court interferes and passes orders, the authorities generally do not proceed with the investigation. The governments are expected and duty bound to create a secure environment so that the judges and judicial officers can function fearlessly,” he said.
Justice Ramana also drew attention to media trials, stating that they should not be used to decide cases.
“Another aspect which affects the fair functioning and independence of judiciary is the rising number of media trials. New media tools have enormous amplifying ability but appear to be incapable of distinguishing between right and wrong, good and bad and the real and fake. Media trials cannot be a guiding factor in deciding cases,” he added.
Explaining the new and ongoing challenges confronting the judiciary, the CJI stated that the Constitution provides ample room for change as the country progresses as a democracy.
Justice Ramana also stated that the judiciary must be quick to adapt and flexible in order to deal with any challenge that comes its way.
While praising the government for the appointment of several judges, the CJI refuted claims that judges themselves appoint judges.
“It is nowadays fashionable to reiterate phrases such as, ‘judges are themselves appointing judges’. I consider this to be one of the widely propagated myths. The fact is the judiciary is merely one of the many players involved in the process. Many authorities are involved including the Union Law Ministry, State Governments, Governor, High Court Collegia, Intelligence Bureau, and lastly, the topmost executive, who all are designated to examine the suitability of a candidate. I am sad to note that the well-informed also propagate the aforesaid notion. After all, this narrative suits certain sections,” he further added.
