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Indian judicial integrity controversies

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2026-10-28 04:58 UTC → 2026-10-31 12:45 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Former Supreme Court Judge Sanjay Kishan Kaul has raised several allegations regarding the independence and conduct of the Indian judiciary. In his ~~forthcoming~~ memoir, ‘Without Fear or Favour’, Kaul criticizes former Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud, alleging he was “too deferential” to the government. Kaul specifically claims Chandrachud sought “pre-approval” from the executive regarding judicial appointments during Collegium meetings and describes a “bizarre” instance where the government questioned a candidate’s caste. Kaul also recounts a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, where he advocated for clearing judicial vacancies to maintain constitutional checks and balances. Additionally, Kaul critiques the practice of retired judges accepting political positions, contrasting his views with former Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi, who accepted a Rajya Sabha nomination after retirement. Chandrachud has responded by stating that decisions were made by consensus and noting that Kaul had not filed formal dissents at the time. Separately, Kaul has expressed concerns regarding an investigation into Justice Yashwant Varma following the discovery of unaccounted and partially burnt cash at Varma’s official residence in August 2025. Kaul characterized the probe as improper, stating there were “too many questions, too many ifs and buts in it.” While Varma resigned in April, a parliamentary inquiry committee indicted him. The committee’s report was tabled in Parliament but has not been discussed due to political stand-offs, with the Lok Sabha Speaker expected to consult political parties before further action.

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