Key Highlights:
Amid the ongoing uproar over BJP MP Nishikant Dubey’s controversial comments about the Supreme Court and Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has lashed out at the Congress, accusing the party of habitually challenging the judiciary’s credibility whenever rulings don’t align with its political interests.
In a strongly-worded post on X, Sarma stressed the importance of maintaining a consistent and respectful approach toward judicial decisions, regardless of political favourability.
Assam CM Slams Selective Criticism by Congress
Sarma accused Congress of a pattern of disapproval against judges who delivered landmark judgments unfavourable to the opposition. He warned that such selective respect erodes public trust in judicial institutions.
“Respecting the judiciary shouldn’t be contingent upon the favourability of its decisions,” Sarma posted. “Selective approbation undermines democracy.”
He went on to cite specific instances:
- Justice Dipak Misra: Congress and its allies moved an impeachment motion against him, alleging misconduct without evidence.
- Justice Ranjan Gogoi: Faced massive backlash post the Ayodhya verdict and other key decisions.
- Justice Arun Mishra: Criticised for judgments and perceived proximity to the executive.
- Justice D.Y. Chandrachud: Subjected to undue scrutiny for rulings in important constitutional cases.
BJP Distances Itself from Dubey, Upholds Judicial Respect
While defending the judiciary, the Assam CM clarified that Nishikant Dubey’s remarks were not endorsed by the BJP leadership. He reiterated that BJP maintains deep institutional respect for the courts.
“Adarniya Nadda Ji emphasised that Dubey’s statements were his personal views and do not reflect the BJP’s position,” Sarma added.
The party is keen to distance itself from Dubey’s incendiary comments, which alleged that the Supreme Court is “inciting religious wars” and that the CJI is “responsible for civil wars in the country.”
Congress Hits Back Over Dubey’s Controversial Remarks
Congress has seized the opportunity to spotlight BJP MP Dubey’s statements. In his remarks to ANI, Dubey sharply criticised the judiciary:
- Alleged that the Supreme Court is overstepping its legislative boundaries.
- Accused the judiciary of fueling religious conflict.
- Questioned the legitimacy of rulings on sensitive issues such as decriminalisation of homosexuality.
These comments have been labelled “deeply irresponsible” and “dangerous” by legal experts and political observers alike.
Justice S Abdul Nazeer Appointment Sparks Fresh Row
Another point of contention raised by the Assam CM was the appointment of retired Supreme Court judge S Abdul Nazeer as Governor of Andhra Pradesh—an issue that triggered fresh criticism from the Congress.
Sarma responded with historical context:
- “Such appointments aren’t unprecedented. Congress criticising it as a threat to judicial independence ignores similar practices from its own past.”
BJP vs Congress: Judiciary Becomes a New Political Battlefield
The ongoing battle between BJP and Congress over judicial conduct reflects a deeper concern—the politicisation of judicial independence. Sarma’s remarks highlight what he views as a Congress trend of questioning the judiciary when verdicts do not suit its political narrative.
This war of words has intensified in Parliament and social media, with both parties trading barbs over respect for institutions.
What This Means for Democratic Institutions
The Assam CM’s defence of the judiciary and criticism of Congress’s alleged inconsistency underscores a growing rift in political discourse around the role of courts in democratic governance.
At stake are:
- Public trust in judiciary.
- The delicate separation of powers between legislature and judiciary.
- The future of judicial accountability amid political pressures.
Observers warn that if political parties continue to attack judicial credibility based on verdict favourability, it may weaken the foundation of constitutional governance.
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