New Delhi, May 2 – A dramatic moment unfolded in the Supreme Court today as Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna sternly rebuked a lawyer for openly criticising the Collegium System during a hearing. The exchange sent ripples through the courtroom, reigniting the national debate over judicial transparency and independence.
As the advocate launched into a pointed critique of the Collegium—a mechanism responsible for appointments and transfers of judges in the higher judiciary—CJI Khanna intervened sharply, stating:
“The courtroom is not the place for sweeping political commentary or unfounded accusations against a constitutionally recognised system. If there are concerns, they must be raised responsibly and through proper channels.”
The courtroom fell silent, as the Chief Justice’s words made it clear: challenges to institutional frameworks must not derail the dignity of legal proceedings.
Collegium Debate Rekindled
The Collegium System, unique to India, has long been a subject of contention. While many within the judiciary defend it as essential to protecting judicial independence, critics have consistently raised concerns about its opaque decision-making and lack of public accountability.
Today’s confrontation brings the matter back into focus—at a time when the discourse around judicial reform is gaining traction both within and outside Parliament.
CJI Khanna’s Message: Order Over Outburst
Justice Sanjiv Khanna, who assumed the role of Chief Justice earlier this year, is widely seen as a calm but decisive figure. His firm response today reflects his intent to uphold courtroom decorum, while also reinforcing confidence in the judiciary’s internal mechanisms.
By shutting down what he viewed as a disruptive attack on the Collegium, Khanna also made a larger point—legal institutions must be critiqued constructively, not theatrically.
Legal Community Divided
The incident has sparked mixed reactions within the legal fraternity:
- Some senior advocates praised the Chief Justice, saying such interventions are necessary to protect the court’s integrity and prevent proceedings from being hijacked by political posturing.
- Others, however, stood by the lawyer, arguing that challenging the Collegium system—even in court—is part of a democratic discourse and must not be silenced.
The moment has exposed a clear divide—between those defending tradition and those demanding reform.
Will This Lead to Reform or Resistance?
The big question now: does this stir fresh momentum for revisiting how judges are appointed in India? Or will the judiciary close ranks in defence of the status quo?
While the government has long advocated for a more transparent, participatory appointment system, the Supreme Court has consistently resisted external interference in judicial matters.
Today’s courtroom moment might just be the flashpoint that revives that unresolved clash.
