CJI Chandrachud addresses criticism of Judiciary as 'Tyranny of Unelected'

Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud emphasized the importance of public trust in the judiciary. Speaking at the Jigme Singye Wangchuk lecture in Bhutan, he addressed criticism aimed at judges for being "unelected and unaccountable." He pointed out that judges, although not elected like political leaders, are bound by the Constitution to ensure fair trials and protect citizens' rights.

CJI Chandrachud explained that all constitutional authorities, including Members of Parliament (MPs), judges, and governments, serve as representatives and trustees of the people. He stated, “Public trust is central to the credibility of the judicial branch.” While the judiciary is independent and operates separately from public opinion, this independence necessitates maintaining public confidence in its functions.

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He highlighted that while elected political leaders decide how resources are distributed, it is the judiciary's role to ensure this distribution is fair. CJI Chandrachud remarked, “We are not elected representatives. Public trust applies to us differently from other wings of government.”

These comments came in response to the "tyranny of the unelected and unaccountable" criticism frequently used against the Supreme Court, especially when it annulled irregular allocations of the 2G spectrum and coal blocks by the previous UPA government. It also arose when the Court rejected the National Judicial Appointments Commission (NJAC) set up by the NDA government.

Strengthening Judicial cooperation with Bhutan

During his visit to Bhutan, CJI Chandrachud met with Lyonpo Chogyal Dago Rigdzin, the Chief Justice of Bhutan, to discuss improving judicial cooperation between the two countries. They signed four Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) to enhance judicial and legal collaboration. 

CJI Chandrachud’s remarks and actions underscore the judiciary's role in upholding justice and fostering trust, which are essential for its credibility.