New Delhi, September 15: Chief Justice of India D Y Chandrachud stated on Friday that he views criticism of the Collegium system as “very positive” and “optimistic,” adding that if criticism is seen cynically, the institution cannot be improved.
He said that the Supreme Court has data on judgements, reportable judgements, and the quality of judgements which judges in high courts are delivering to make the process of appointments more transparent and objective. He noted that the Collegium is criticised for lacking factual data while considering the appointment of judges in the constitutional courts.
“I have a Centre for Planning and Research…In his remarks at the fourth installment of the Ram Jethmalani Lecture Series, Chief Justice Chandrachud said, “We have built a wide platform where we have accessible every one of the top 50 judges in the nation who would be considered for appointment as justices of the Supreme Court.
He said that efforts are “still in process” but “improving” to make Collegium’s selection of judges for the Supreme Court and High Courts more open and objective.
According to CJI Chandrachud, objective criteria are being established for selection reasons, and talks held by the Collegium during selection cannot be “obviously” made public.
