The Bombay High Court on Wednesday rejected a PIL against Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar & Union Law Minister Kiren Rijiju for purportedly making derogatory remarks against the Supreme Court.
While rejecting the PIL filed by the Bombay Lawyers Association, Bombay HC observed that “The learned Additional Solicitor General has referred to some of the statements made by Respondent Nos 1 and 2, wherein it has been said that the Government has never undermined the authority of the judiciary and its independence will always remain untouched and promoted and they respect the ideals of the Constitution.”
The court further stated that “Respondent No 1 has also made a statement that he has the highest respect for the judiciary and is committed to the Constitution of India. The constitutional authorities cannot be removed in the manner as suggested by the Petitioner. Fair criticism of the judgment is permissible. It is no doubt, the fundamental duty of every citizen to abide by the Constitution. Majesty of law has to be respected.”
The HC stated that the credibility of the Supreme Court of India is sky-high. It can’t be impinged or eroded by the statement of the Individuals. Every citizen of India is bounded by the Constitution and is expected to abide by the constitutional values.
The court added that constitutional institutions are to be respected by all, including constitutional authorities and persons holding constitutional posts.
