56 Former Judges Oppose Impeachment Move Against Justice GR Swaminathan, Call It Threat to Judicial Independence
Source: X
A group of 56 former judges, including former Supreme Court judges and former Chief Justices and judges of various High Courts, has criticised the impeachment notice moved by Opposition MPs against Madras High Court judge Justice GR Swaminathan. In an open letter on Friday, the retired judges described the move as a serious challenge to judicial independence and warned that such actions could undermine the constitutional framework.
The former judges stated that the impeachment attempt appears to target a judge for delivering a judicial order that did not align with certain political expectations. They argued that using impeachment as a response to an unfavourable verdict sets a dangerous precedent and could be perceived as pressure on the judiciary. According to them, the mechanism for removal of judges exists to protect judicial integrity, not to be used as a political tool.
The statement further raised concerns that allowing such attempts could weaken public trust in the judiciary and open the door to future misuse. The signatories urged Members of Parliament, legal professionals and civil society to resist efforts that could turn constitutional safeguards into instruments of intimidation.
The controversy stems from an earlier order by Justice Swaminathan of the Madurai Bench directing authorities to ensure lighting of a sacred lamp atop a hilltop temple. The ruling sparked a political row in Tamil Nadu, with the state government stating that it contradicted longstanding ritual practices.
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The strong reaction from former judges signals growing unease over attempts to link judicial decisions with political expectations. Protecting judicial independence is essential for the rule of law, and debates on impeachment must be approached with caution. As constitutional discussions gain prominence, it is important that institutions remain protected from undue influence.