Government is Indian judiciary's biggest litigator: Ex-CJI Ramana
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Hyderabad: Former Chief Justice of India NV Ramana said that half the problems the Indian judiciary is facing will be resolved if state-sponsored litigations are stopped. He described the government to be the biggest litigator.
He was speaking at ISB Leadership Summit 2022 and was given the Rasamayi-Dr Akkineni Lifetime Achievement Award at the event.
He added that the state of judicial infrastructure is "disturbing" even after 75 years of independence. "The number of interdepartmental disputes, service matters, and those relating to the interaction of authorities clogging the system is appalling. Half of the judiciary problem would be solved the moment the government decides to put a halt to the state-sponsored litigations," he said.
He pointed out that the judiciary does not have power when it comes to financial support and appointments which puts limits on its independence. "Coordinating with the government is always like walking a tightrope."
During his 16-month tenure as CJI, the Supreme Court collegium could ensure the appointment of 11 judges to the top Court. Out of 255 people recommended for the judgeship of various high courts, 233 have been appointed.
Referring to a nationwide study he commissioned about the judicial infrastructure, he said: "During the chief ministers and chief justices conference last April, I had the occasion to highlight my understanding of these problems." He added that it is important for business students also to have knowledge of the Constitution.
The former CJI stated that he did what he could in 16 months but could not completely bring in the reforms. "I hoped that there would be total reforms in the judicial system after 75 years of independence. But there was no possibility."
He added that facilities for the judiciary and modernization of the system were among some of the initiatives he took within his capability so that the judiciary would come closer to the common people. "Access to justice is important as people should not be wary of the judicial system."