In India, political parties wrongly believe judiciary should endorse their actions, advance their political cause: CJI NV Ramana

Judiciary is an independent organ which is answerable to the Constitution alone and not to any political parties or ideologies, Chief Justice of India NV Ramana (CJI) said on Friday. .In India, there is a wrong notion among political parties that the judiciary should advance their respective political agendas, he said."As we celebrate 75th year of Independence this year and as our Republic turned 72, with some sense of regret I must add here that we still haven’t learnt to appreciate wholly the roles and responsibilities assigned by the Constitution to each of the Institutions. The party in power believes that every governmental action is entitled to judicial endorsement. The parties in opposition expect the judiciary to advance their political positions and causes," the CJI stated.Such a thought process stems from non-understanding of the Constitution and democracy, he added."It is the vigorously promoted ignorance among general public which is coming to the aid of such forces whose only aim is to run down the only independent organ, i.e., judiciary" he addedHowever, he underscored that the judiciary is answerable to the Constitution alone. "Let me make it clear that we (judiciary) are answerable to the Constitution and Constitution alone. To ensure checks and balances envisaged in constitution we need to promote constitutional culture in India," he stated..The CJI was speaking at an event organised by Association of Indo-Americans in at California's San Francisco in the United States of America.In his speech, the CJI also highlighted the importance of promoting tolerance and inclusivity.In this regard, he pointed out the example of USA itself. "Please remember. It is the tolerance and inclusive nature of American society that is able to attract the best talents from all over the world, which in turn is contributing to its growth. Honouring qualified talents from diverse backgrounds is also essential to sustain confidence of all the sections of the society in the system. This principle of inclusivity is universal. It needs to be honoured everywhere in the world, including in India. Inclusivity strengthens the unity in society which is key to peace and progress. We need to focus on issues that unite us. Not on those that divide us," he said.He reminded the audience while they may be leading an affluent life in USA, their parents and relative back home in India should also be able to live in a peaceful society which is free from hate and violence."If you cannot take care of your peace and well being of your parents back home what is the use of your wealth and status here. A nation that welcomes everyone with open arms and assimilates all cultures is bound to prosper," the CJI said. In the 21st century, people should rise above narrow, divisive issues, he underlined..Read more about the speech below.