Judicial Independence Does Not Require Always Ruling Against the Government: CJI DY Chandrachud

New Delhi: Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud addressed evolving dynamics of judicial independence during a discussion on Monday, highlighting that it should t be conflated with consistently ruling against government. 

As he prepares to step down from his position on vember 10, CJI Chandrachud stated challenges posed by social media and pressure groups that seek to influence judicial outcomes.

In his remarks, he stated, "Judicial independence means independence t just from government but also from pressure and interest groups." He criticized tion that a judge's independence is validated only when decisions favor certain interests, asserting that true independence allows judges to rule based on ir conscience and law.

CJI Chandrachud referenced his own experiences, ting that while he faced applause for striking down electoral bonds, he was criticized for decisions that aligned with government's stance. He articulated need for judges to have freedom to make decisions that reflect balance of justice, regardless of public perception.

" expectation that judges must always rule against government undermines essence of judicial independence," he stated. “If law necessitates a decision in favor of government, that must be upheld.”

When questioned about potential influence of recent Lok Sabha election results on Court's approach, he affirmed that judicial decisions are based on legal principles rar than political climates.