Chief Justice of India NV Ramana on Wednesday termed “very unfortunate” certain “speculations and reports” in the media about Collegium meeting regarding appointment of judges’ in the Supreme Court, reported PTI. CJI Ramana, said the process of appointment of judges is sacrosanct and has dignity attached to it and the media must understand and recognise its sanctity, while speaking in the ceremonial function to bid farewell to Justice Navin Sinha who is retiring.
“On this occasion I want to take the liberty to express my concern about certain speculations and reports in the media. You are all aware we need to appoint judges to this court. The process is ongoing. Meetings will be held and decisions will be taken. The process of appointment of judges is sacrosanct and has certain dignity attached to it. My media friends must understand and recognise the sanctity of this process,” he said. The CJI said that as an institution, the apex court holds the freedom of media and the rights of individuals in high esteem and today’s reflections in some sections of the media, pending the process, even before formalising the resolution is counter-productive. “There were instances of deserving career progression of bright talents getting marred because of such irresponsible reporting and speculation. This is very unfortunate and I am extremely upset about it,” he said. The head of the judiciary was referring to media reports which said the Collegium, headed by the CJI, is understood to have recommended nine names for appointment as judges in the top court.
