Congress questions BJP over judicial appointment process claims

The Congress party launched a sharp attack on the ruling BJP after a retired Supreme Court judge made assertions about the government's role in the judicial appointment process. The comments have reignited debate over institutional independence and the separation of powers between the executive and judiciary.

The former judge's remarks suggesting that government approval comes before merit-based selection in judicial picks have triggered alarm among opposition quarters. Congress leaders contended that if such a practice exists, it would fundamentally compromise judicial independence and raise serious constitutional concerns.

The issue strikes at the heart of India's institutional framework, where the judiciary is meant to function independently from executive interference. Legal experts and political commentators have previously raised concerns about the appointment mechanisms for higher court judges, with ongoing discussions about the collegium system's transparency and effectiveness.

The BJP has not immediately responded to Congress allegations regarding the appointment process. The controversy underscores persistent tensions between India's major political parties over how judicial selections are conducted and whether adequate safeguards exist to protect judicial autonomy from political influence.