Kerala Congress demands resignation of Chief Justice Suryakumar

The Kerala Congress party escalated its criticism of the judiciary on Monday, formally demanding the resignation of Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna over undisclosed concerns. The party's call added to growing political tensions surrounding the country's highest court.

Responding to the demand, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju attacked the Congress party for what he characterized as repeated attempts to undermine judicial independence. Rijiju alleged that the opposition was engaged in a pattern of targeting constitutional bodies and weakening democratic institutions through such public criticism.

The development reflects broader political discord over judicial matters in India, with opposition parties increasingly vocal about concerns regarding the functioning of the supreme court. Congress has previously raised questions about various judgments and administrative decisions by the judiciary.

The government's response underscores the administration's view that such public calls for judicial resignations constitute attacks on institutional autonomy. Officials have maintained that the judiciary must be insulated from political pressure to preserve its independence and effectiveness in upholding constitutional principles.