I hang my head in shame: Kapil Sibal on state of judiciary
The Hindu
Kapil Sibal said Emergency was declared by virtue of powers that were provided for in the Constitution.
Expressing concern over the current state of the judiciary, Rajya Sabha MP and senior advocate Kapil Sibal on Sunday said some members of the institution have "let us down" and "I hang my head in shame" for what has happened in the recent past.
In an interview with PTI, Mr. Sibal also said that in recent years, free speech, and how it has been interpreted by the Supreme Court, unfortunately, is not allowed the space that is constitutionally permissible to it.
Attacking the BJP-led government at the Centre, he said there is a "de facto emergency" in place with "throttling" of institutions. The rule of law is "infringed'' on a daily basis, he alleged.
Mr. Sibal also said the present dispensation wants an 'Opposition-mukt Bharat' not just a 'Congress-mukt Bharat'.
Asked about the arrest of Alt News co-founder Mohammed Zubair, Mr. Sibal said that the more worrying larger issue was that some members of the judiciary have "let us down".
"Some members of the institution (judiciary) of which I have been a part for 50 years have let us down. I hang my head in shame that this has happened. When the judiciary turns a blind eye to ex facie violations of the rule of law one wonders why an institution designed to protect the rule of law allows the rule of law to be infringed with open eyes,” Mr. Sibal told PTI over phone from the UK.
Talking about the arrest of Zubair and the denial of bail to him by a Delhi court, he said that for a tweet four years ago without any communal outcome, it is "unthinkable" for that person to have been arrested.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz visits Israel for the first time to strengthen ties amid recent tensions over the Gaza conflict.
A study reveals rising heat amplifies health risks for women in seven Indian states, impacting physical, mental, and economic well-being.
Ghaziabad topped India's pollution list in November, with Delhi ranking fourth, according to a new air quality report.
ED, GST officers conduct check at a cardamom merchant’s godown in Bodi with CISF guards on duty
Shooting begins for the biopic on Gummadi Narasaiah, highlighting the life of the former Yellandu MLA in Telangana.
Honey Rose hopes that she will be able to prove herself as an actor with 'Rachel'
Karnataka police chief issues strict guidelines to combat misconduct and restore integrity within the police force amid rising incidents.
NEERI proposes a management plan to combat untreated sewage discharge in Edappally and Thevara-Perandoor canals, enhancing water quality.
Muslims remember Babri Masjid demolition day
Cyclone damage in Thanjavur's Cauvery delta threatens sugarcane yields, raising concerns for farmers ahead of Pongal celebrations.
Police Commissioner praises home guards for their vital role in maintaining law and order during the 63rd Raising Day celebrations.
Governor to inaugurate Telangana Global Rising Summit 2025, focusing on investments and economic growth with key global speakers.
Advocates urge Karnataka Chief Justice to establish a High Court Bench in Mangaluru to improve access for coastal litigants.