'Part Of Robust Dialogue': CJI Chandrachud On PM Modi's Ganesh Puja Visit, Emphasises Need Of Meetings To Get Work Done

Chief Justice of India D Y Chandrachud addressed the political controversy surrounding Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to his residence for Ganesh Puja, clarifying that judicial matters are not discussed in such meetings.

Speaking at the Loksatta annual lecture, he noted that it is standard practice for Chief Ministers (CM) and Chief Justices of high courts to engage in regular meetings.

Chandrachud explained, "The judiciary's budget is from the state. This budget is not for judges. We need new court buildings, new residences for judges in districts. For this, the Chief Justice and CM's meetings are necessary."

"When the Chief Justice is appointed, they go the Chief Minister's house. Then, the Chief Minister comes to the Chief Justice's house. These meetings have set agenda," he added.

Chandrachud said that the discussions involve priorities of infrastructure development and budget and having these discussions over letters would delay the work, hence, meetings are necessary.

Applauding the 'maturity of our political system', he said that there is a great deal of deference to the judiciary even in the political class and in the course of these meetings, never would the CM ask about a pending case.

"On August 14, and January 26, a wedding or mourning, the CM and the Chief Justice meet each other, there is no bearing on judicial work. People ask what deals are happening. This is just part of a robust dialogue," the CJI added.

This comes after opposition leaders including Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) MP Sanjay Raut and Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) MP Manoj Jha criticised PM Modi's visit to the CJI's house for Ganesh Puja.