Chief Justice of India (CJI) D Y Chandrachud addressed recent controversies regarding case listings and judge allocations, expressing dismay at the escalating tensions amidst allegations flung by senior members of the Bar.
The episode stemmed from the listing of AAP leader Satyendar Kumar Jain’s bail plea before Justice Bela M Trivedi’s bench, attributed to Justice A S Bopanna’s unavailability due to health issues. Justice Chandrachud clarified that Justice Bopanna’s medical absence post-Diwali led to the reassignment of pending matters, including Jain’s plea, to Justice Trivedi, who last presided over the case.
Reacting to written grievances from Dushyant Dave and Prashant Bhushan, CJI Chandrachud highlighted a communication from Justice Bopanna’s office, asserting his reluctance for matters to remain ‘part-heard’ in his absence, justifying the bench reallocation.
Expressing surprise, Justice Chandrachud criticized the bar’s request for a specific judge, emphasizing that judicial assignments shouldn’t be influenced by personal preferences. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta suggested disregarding such “malicious” letters without response.
Despite pleas for deferral by senior advocate Abhishek Singhvi, representing Jain, CJI Chandrachud affirmed that the bench responsible for the case would decide, refraining from intervening in judicial decisions. Subsequently, the bench of Justices Trivedi and SC Sharma extended Jain’s interim bail till January 8 due to his recent injury.
Jain faces allegations of money laundering, with the Enforcement Directorate (ED) asserting repeated trial adjournments due to his pending apex court bail plea. Initially arrested by the ED in May 2021, Jain maintains his innocence against these accusations.
The episode underscores the judiciary’s dedication to maintaining procedural integrity while navigating complex case listings and judge allocations, emphasizing fair and impartial legal proceedings.
Sources By Agencies