Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a scathing attack on the Congress party following a wave of concern expressed by legal professionals over alleged attempts to undermine the integrity of India's judiciary. Hundreds of lawyers, along with several bar associations across the country, addressed their concerns to Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud.
'Vintage Congress Culture': PM Modi's tweet slamming Congress
Taking to the social media platform 'X', PM Modi accused Congress of resorting to age-old tactics of intimidation and coercion. "To browbeat and bully others is vintage Congress culture," he remarked.
He highlighted the irony of Congress demanding commitment from others while failing to demonstrate commitment towards the nation. "No wonder, 140 crore Indians are rejecting them," PM Modi added.
His remarks came in response to a letter signed by over 600 lawyers, including prominent figures like Harish Salve and Bar Council chairperson Manan Kumar Mishra, addressed to Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud. The letter alleged a concerted effort by a "vested interest group" to exert pressure on the judiciary and tarnish the image of courts, especially concerning corruption cases involving politicians.
Union Minister and Arunachal West candidate Kiren Rijiju emphasised the emergence of voices speaking out against such pressures. He criticised Congress for promoting the notion of a "committed judiciary" in the past and accused them of attacking institutions that don't align with their interests.
Responding to PM Modi's remarks, Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge questioned the propriety of the Prime Minister commenting on the judiciary. He raised concerns over the independence of institutions under the current regime, referencing previous incidents involving Supreme Court judges and their criticisms.
"However, as you consider India's institutions to be your personal property, I have some questions for you. Why did four senior-most Supreme Court judges hold an unprecedented press conference and warn against the 'destruction of democracy' by your regime? Why was one of the judges nominated by your government to the Rajya Sabha..." Kharge added.
The discourse intensified as Congress leader Jairam Ramesh accused PM Modi of hypocrisy, alleging orchestrated attacks on the judiciary under the guise of defending it. Ramesh criticized the government's electoral bonds scheme and accused PM Modi of divisive tactics.
Meanwhile, Congress leader Jairam Ramesh accused PM Modi of hypocrisy, alleging orchestrated attacks on the judiciary under the guise of defending it. Ramesh criticised the government's electoral bonds scheme and accused PM Modi of divisive tactics.
"All that the Prime Minister has done in the last 10 years is divide, distort, divert, and defame. 140 crore Indians are waiting to give him a befitting reply very soon," the Congress leader further said.
In a separate letter by lawyers, concerns were raised about the tactics employed by certain groups to influence judges and discredit the judiciary. They urged Chief Justice Chandrachud to lead during these "tough times" and emphasised the importance of the Supreme Court maintaining a strong stance
