Former Judges Rally Against Campaign Targeting CJI Surya Kant

44 Ex-Judges Defend Chief Justice Amid Controversy Over Rohingya Remarks

India, December 10, 2025, Wednesday, 2025

India, October 10, 2023, Tuesday, 2023

A significant statement has emerged from a group of 44 former judges of the Supreme Court and High Courts in India. They have publicly condemned a campaign aimed at Chief Justice of India Surya Kant. This campaign arose following his remarks regarding the legal status of Rohingya migrants during a recent case. The former judges assert that the criticism directed at Justice Kant is unfounded and misrepresents his judicial inquiries.

The controversy began when Justice Kant posed questions about the legal status of Rohingya migrants. His inquiries were part of a broader discussion on human rights and the treatment of these individuals in India. Critics quickly seized upon his comments, alleging bias and insensitivity. However, the former judges argue that these accusations distort the essence of the judicial process.

Judicial Independence at Stake
The former judges emphasize the importance of judicial independence in their statement. They argue that the campaign against Justice Kant undermines the integrity of the judiciary. The judges believe that questioning a judge's motives based on routine judicial inquiries sets a dangerous precedent. Such actions could deter judges from engaging in open discussions about sensitive issues.

The statement highlights that the judiciary's role is to uphold human dignity and reject torture. Justice Kant's comments were not an endorsement of any particular stance but rather an exploration of legal principles. The former judges assert that the judiciary must remain a space for robust debate and inquiry, free from external pressures and misinterpretations.

Misrepresentation of Judicial Queries
The former judges point out that the critics have twisted Justice Kant's routine judicial query into a narrative of bias. They argue that this misrepresentation detracts from the serious issues at hand, including the plight of Rohingya migrants. The judges stress that the focus should remain on the legal and humanitarian aspects of the case rather than personal attacks on the Chief Justice.

The Rohingya crisis is a complex issue involving international law, human rights, and national security. The former judges remind the public that the judiciary's role is to navigate these complexities with care and consideration. They believe that Justice Kant's inquiries were aimed at understanding the legal framework surrounding the Rohingya situation, not at making political statements.

A Call for Respect and Dignity
In their statement, the former judges call for a return to respectful discourse surrounding judicial matters. They urge the public and media to refrain from sensationalizing judicial inquiries. The judges believe that a respectful dialogue is essential for maintaining the dignity of the judiciary and the rule of law.

The former judges also express concern about the potential chilling effect this campaign could have on future judicial proceedings. They warn that if judges fear backlash for their inquiries, it could lead to a reluctance to address difficult issues. This, they argue, would ultimately harm the justice system and the individuals it serves.

The Role of the Judiciary in Society
The judiciary plays a crucial role in upholding the rights of individuals and ensuring justice. The former judges remind the public that judges must be allowed to perform their duties without fear of retribution. They argue that the independence of the judiciary is a cornerstone of democracy and must be protected.

Justice Kant's comments on the Rohingya case were made in the context of a legal framework that seeks to balance humanitarian concerns with national interests. The former judges assert that the judiciary must engage with these complexities openly and honestly. They believe that the public should support judges in their efforts to navigate these challenging issues.

Public Perception and Media Responsibility
The former judges also address the role of the media in shaping public perception of judicial matters. They caution against sensational reporting that can distort the facts and mislead the public. The judges argue that responsible journalism is essential for fostering an informed citizenry.

The statement from the former judges serves as a reminder of the importance of accurate reporting and respectful discourse. They believe that the media has a responsibility to present judicial inquiries in a fair and balanced manner. This, they argue, is vital for maintaining public trust in the judiciary.

The Impact of Social Media
In today's digital age, social media plays a significant role in shaping public opinion. The former judges express concern about the rapid spread of misinformation on these platforms. They warn that social media can amplify unfounded accusations and create a hostile environment for judges.

The judges call for greater awareness of the impact of social media on public discourse. They believe that individuals should critically evaluate the information they consume and share. This, they argue, is essential for fostering a more informed and respectful dialogue about judicial matters.

A Unified Stand for Justice
The statement from the 44 former judges represents a unified stand for the principles of justice and judicial independence. They believe that the campaign against Justice Kant is not just an attack on one individual but a broader threat to the integrity of the judiciary. The judges urge the public to recognize the importance of protecting judicial independence for the sake of democracy.

As the debate surrounding the Rohingya case continues, the former judges hope their statement will encourage a more respectful and informed discussion. They believe that the judiciary must remain a space for open inquiry and debate, free from external pressures and misinterpretations. The judges stand firm in their belief that the rule of law and human dignity must prevail in all judicial matters.

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