Alternative to collegium system may be worse: ex-SC judge

Shimla: Former Supreme Court judge Justice GS Singhvi on Sunday cautioned against tinkering with the collegium system for appointment of judges and said that it has worked satisfactorily so far.

Addressing a seminar on “Appointment of Judges, Accountability and Lawyers” organised by the Indian Association of Lawyers (HP unit) in the High Court today, Justice Singhvi said that “the collegium system of appointment of judges has so far worked satisfactorily and even though some discrepancies have come to fore lately, the alternative may be worse”.

Stressing that it is imperative to delve upon all the pros and cons of the old and new system, he suggested “appointment of Judicial Ombudsman for probe on allegations of misconduct on Supreme Court and High Court judges or the persons who are being considered for the judgeship in the Supreme Court and High Court”.

“The Ombudsman should complete inquiry within a specified time and decision should be taken by the President of India on it  within specific time frame,” he said.

Speaking at the seminar, R S Cheema, senior advocate and former AG, Punjab and Haryana High Court, laid stress on transparent system that draws best talent, not on the basis of seniority, but their suitability for the post of judges.

He advocated the need for a National Judicial Service exam for appointment of judges.

Senior advocate from Mumbai, Niloufer Bhagwat stressed on the need for independence of judiciary, while Jitender Sharma, National President of IAL, said that the selection process of Supreme Court and High Court Judges should be open and the names being considered should be disclosed in public.

Asserting  that the selection process should have wider consultation process and should not be held in secretive manner, he  said that consultation with Bar is very important to know the credentials of the person being considered for the post.

PTI