The recent move to present a motion before the Speaker of the Lok Sabha seeking the impeachment of Justice G.R. Swaminathan for his judgment in the Tirupparankundram Deepam case marks a disturbing moment in India's constitutional life. What was once an extraordinary remedy reserved for proven misbehaviour or incapacity is being invoked as a rhetorical and political tool to signal disapproval of a judicial outcome. Such a development raises troubling questions about the future of judicial independence and the health of democratic institutions.

The motion, though presented, does not automatically usher in the process of removal. Under the Judges (Inquiry) Act, 1968, the Speaker is vested with the authority to admit or reject the motion after considering its grounds and supporting material

See Full Page