Conclave 2023: Nothing political about Rafale, Ayodhya judgements, says ex-CJI SA Bobde

Justice SA Bobde on Saturday said the chief justice's position is a difficult place to be in. Explaining the challenges, the former Chief Justice of India said there is always an environment of competition inside the courts. He clarified that the court judgements are not influenced by politics 

Justice SA Bobde, former Chief Justice of India, on Saturday said being the CJI is a heavy responsibility. 

"It is a difficult place to be in, a heavy responsibility as there is too much competition for the courts, everybody wants to win his case," Justice SA Bobde said while speaking at the India Today Conclave in New Delhi. 

"The problems arise when judges face some really irresponsible comments," Justice SA Bobde said, adding, "the chief justice is always answerable and responsible in any such situation." 

The former Chief Justice's remarks came in response to a question about whether the crown of a chief justice holds thorns. 

Responding to whether the Supreme Court judgments are influenced by politics, Justice SA Bobde said, "the term 'politics' can be attached to anything." 

Referring to important judgements, including the Rafale and the Ayodhya case, Justice SA Bobde said, "There was nothing political about Rafael, it was a defense deal, the Ayodhya issue has been ongoing since pre-Independence times. There is nothing political, except for the fact that politicians talk about it." 

"We are not involved in politics as courts," the former Chief Justice said. 

The 20th edition of India Today conclave at the Taj Palace in New Delhi kicked off on Friday, where a galaxy of renowned leaders and personalities exchanged their ideas on building a better world. 

The two-day event will see titans from diverse fields debate and discuss ideas that will set the narrative and shape the world.