SC need not act as Opposition in Parliament, its role as people's court must be preserved: CJI DY Chandrachud

Chief Justice of India (CJI) D.Y. Chandrachud, during the inaugural Supreme Court Advocates On Record Association (SCAORA) Conference in South Goa, reiterated the importance of maintaining the Supreme Court's role as the “people's court.” He explained that while it is crucial for the court to be accessible to all citizens, it should not be seen as taking a political stance or acting as an opposition to Parliament. The CJI highlighted that the court’s primary role is to uphold justice and not to serve as a political tool.

CJI Chandrachud acknowledged that public perception of the court often shifts based on case outcomes. He noted a “great divide” in public opinion, where the court is celebrated when decisions favor individuals but denigrated when they don’t. He stressed that this mindset is problematic because the judiciary’s function should not be judged by the outcome of individual cases, but by its adherence to the rule of law and judicial independence. The CJI defended the independence of judges, asserting that they must decide cases impartially and without being influenced by external pressure, public opinion, or political narratives.

The CJI also focused on the role of technology in enhancing the transparency of the Supreme Court. He highlighted several key initiatives, including e-filing of cases, digitization of court records, and live-streaming of court proceedings. These measures have transformed how the public interacts with the judiciary. CJI Chandrachud emphasized that live-streaming, in particular, has brought the work of the Supreme Court directly to the public, debunking the myth that it only handles cases involving influential or wealthy individuals.

By showcasing cases as varied as bail applications, pension disputes, and service retirement issues, live-streaming has demonstrated that the court is deeply invested in addressing the concerns of ordinary citizens. The CJI acknowledged the potential downsides, including lawyers playing to the gallery, but emphasized the overall positive impact on transparency and public confidence.

CJI Chandrachud reiterated the importance of maintaining the Supreme Court’s commitment to justice and fairness, ensuring that it continues to function as an institution for all citizens, regardless of their social or economic status. He called for the legal community to respect and uphold this independence and avoid placing undue pressure on judges based on individual case outcomes.