Kochi, July 7: The Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, while addressing the students of National University of Advanced Legal Studies (NUALS) in Kochi on Monday, supported the independence of the judiciary and raised serious questions on its transparency and accountability.
The Vice President reacted sharply to the huge amount of cash found during the fire operation in the fire incident at the official residence of a judge of the Delhi High Court on March 14.
Vice President said, “This is not a minor matter. Where did so much money come from? Whose was it? This is a criminal case and it should be investigated in depth. No FIR has been registered yet, which is a matter of concern.”
He said that the recent incidents in the judiciary are shaking the foundation of democracy. If people lose faith in the judiciary, the country will be in serious trouble.
He also expressed concern over the postings given to retired judges. He said that when everyone does not get postings and only a few are given, it gives rise to a culture of bias and patronage in selection. This is a direct blow to the impartiality of the judiciary.
Commenting on the amendment in the Preamble of the Constitution during the Emergency, he said that this happened at a time when lakhs of people were in jail. Fundamental rights were completely suspended. Changing the Preamble was against democratic values. He said, “You cannot change parents, in the same way the Preamble of the Constitution should also not be changed.”
Describing the principle of separation of powers as paramount in the Constitution, he said that the executive, judiciary and legislature should work within their respective limits, otherwise democracy may be in danger.