A few recent orders by the Supreme Court and some High Courts are worrisome. The one by the Delhi High Court on Silly Souls Cafe and Bar is a matter of concern. Did that judge overstep her domain? The Constitution of India is very clear on the distinct roles of the Executive, Legislature and Judiciary. It envisages a free, fair and independent judiciary. With the sanctity of the other pillars of our democracy currently severely dented, our only hope is the judiciary but with the government wanting to overpower the judiciary too, there is a very disturbing disquiet over the slippery slope on which judicial values are slithering. The highest standards of judicial independence must be ensured as the judiciary is the very last hope for the common man. Any direct or indirect interference by the politicians in the selection, appointment and elevation of judges is a threat to the independence of the judiciary. If the judiciary is reduced to being a mouthpiece of the government, the courts will lose relevance.
