The Chief Justice of India, D Y Chandrachud, on Monday, found himself correcting a litigant’s informal language during court proceedings. The litigant, appearing before the Supreme Court, used the colloquial term ‘ya’ to address the bench. The CJI, expressing his displeasure, reminded the lawyer that they were in a courtroom, not a casual setting. He stressed the importance of maintaining the dignity and decorum expected in such a formal setting.
However, the proceedings took a more serious turn when the Supreme Court addressed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by the same litigant. This PIL sought an in-house inquiry into the conduct of former Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi. The petition stemmed from a service dispute case dismissed by a bench led by Justice Gogoi during his tenure.
The bench, led by CJI Chandrachud, firmly rejected the PIL. They reasoned that seeking an inquiry against a retired judge, particularly a former Chief Justice, is inappropriate and lacks respect for the institution. They emphasized that the litigant’s dissatisfaction with the previous bench’s decision did not justify targeting a retired judge with such a serious allegation.
Beyond the legal arguments, the CJI’s remarks highlight the importance of maintaining decorum and professionalism within the legal system. The use of informal language, while commonplace in everyday conversations, is considered disrespectful in formal settings, especially in a court of law. The case serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between ensuring access to justice and upholding the dignity of the judiciary.
The CJI’s actions, in both addressing the litigant’s language and dismissing the PIL, showcase the importance of navigating these complexities within the legal framework. It highlights the responsibility of all stakeholders to respect the judicial process and its traditions.
