PM Modi's visit to CJI Chandrachud's residence for Ganpati Puja evokes criticism from opposition, lawyers

Shiv Sena leaders and senior Supreme Court lawyers have expressed concerns over Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi's visit to Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud's residence for Ganpati Puja, saying such interactions could undermine trust in the judiciary and raise doubts over its independence.

Wearing a traditional Maharashtrian cap, PM Modi joined the CJI and his wife at their residence in New Delhi on Sep 11. They were seen performing the aarti and offering prayers before Lord Ganesha’s idol.

Criticizing the PM’s visit, Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut said such interactions between constitutional authorities and political leaders could undermine trust in the judiciary, especially in a case involving the Maharashtra government that is being heard by the CJI.

“The Prime Minister visited the CJI's residence and they performed aarti together. Our concern is that when the custodians of the Constitution meet with political leaders in this manner, it raises doubts,” Raut said on X.

“Our case in Maharashtra, which involves the current government, is being heard before the Chief Justice and the Prime Minister is part of it. We are concerned about whether we will get justice. The Chief Justice should consider recusing himself from this case to avoid any appearance of bias,” he added.

Supreme Court lawyer Prashant Bhushan said he was shocked that the CJI allowed Modi to visit his residence for a private meeting and that It sends a disturbing message about the judiciary's independence and its role in safeguarding citizens' rights and ensuring government accountability.

“Shocking that CJI Chandrachud allowed Modi to visit him at his residence for a private meeting. Sends a very bad signal to the judiciary which is tasked with the responsibility of protecting the fundamental right of citizens from the executive and ensuring that the govt acts within bounds of Constitution,” Bhushan wrote on X.

“That is why there has to be an arms-length separation between the executive & judiciary,” he added.

Veteran lawyer and activist Indira Jai Singh said the CJI has undermined the separation of powers between the executive and judiciary.

“CJI has compromised the separation of powers between the Executive and Judiciary. Lost all confidence in the independence of the CJI. The Supreme Court bar association must condemn this publicly displayed compromise of Independence of the CJI from the Executive,” she posted on X.