Collegium Assesses High Court Candidates

• 25 Dec 2024

Source: HT 

Recently, the Supreme Court collegium conducted interactions with candidates being considered for high court judgeship, going “over and above” the standard screening process. 

• The standard screening process includes assessing judicial work, IB inputs, the chief minister's views via the governor, and the Department of Justice's observations. 
• The move came after controversial remarks on religion by a judge of Allahabad high court at an event that sparked widespread criticism. 
  • It was alleged that his comments breached the Restatement of Values of Judicial Life adopted by the Supreme Court in 1997. 
    • It is a code of judicial ethics that serves as a guide for an independent and fair judiciary, and impartial administration of justice.  
  • It also violated the Bangalore Principles of Judicial Conduct, 2002 that set ethical standards for judges, and regulates judicial behaviour. 
    • It recognizes six core values i.e., independence, impartiality, integrity, propriety, equality, and competence and diligence. 
• Article 217 of the Constitution states that the Judge of a High Court shall be appointed by the President in consultation with the Chief Justice of India (CJI), and the Governor of the State. 

Read More: Restatement of Values of Judicial Life