Former AG Rohatgi calls for judicial reform in India

Mukul Rohatgi, the former Attorney General of India, has called for major reforms in the judiciary. He specifically focused on the processes for appointing and removing judges. Rohatgi pointed out that the impeachment process is too complicated and has not led to any impeachments in the last 75 years. He criticized the current appointment system, in which judges choose their successors. This system lacks transparency, according to Rohatgi. The National Judicial Appointments Commission (NJAC), designed to make appointments clearer, was struck down by the Supreme Court. He believes that including outside experts and public figures in the process would improve fairness and openness. Rohatgi also highlighted issues with how judges are assigned to High Courts. He said that decisions are often made by a small group of individuals, which lacks accountability. He urged for a more inclusive approach to assigning judges. Regarding the removal of judges, Rohatgi emphasized that the current impeachment process is too complex and needs to be simplified. He called for collaboration between the judiciary and Parliament, along with involvement from other stakeholders, to enhance the transparency and effectiveness of the judicial system.