Chief Justice of India (CJI) D.Y. Chandrachud has emphatically stated that the judiciary operates independently, free from any political or executive pressure. Speaking at the India Today Conclave 2023, he highlighted his 23-year tenure across various judicial capacities, emphasizing that he has never faced any directives to decide cases in a specific manner. He underscored the judiciary’s commitment to maintaining a clear separation of powers between the executive, legislature, and judiciary, a cornerstone of Indian democracy【45†source】【46†source】.
CJI Chandrachud also referenced recent landmark judgments, such as those involving the Election Commission, as evidence of the judiciary’s autonomy. He noted that the Supreme Court frequently rules against the state in numerous cases, further demonstrating its independence. Additionally, he addressed concerns about the transparency of the Collegium system and the need for the judiciary to adapt to contemporary societal values【46†source】【47†source】.
During the Diamond Jubilee celebrations of the Supreme Court, CJI Chandrachud reiterated that judges must be free from social and political pressures and inherent biases. He emphasized ongoing efforts within the judiciary to educate and sensitize judges on these issues, aiming to ensure fair and unbiased judicial processes【49†source】.