[BREAKING] CJI NV Ramana expresses anguish at "speculative" media reports on Collegium recommendations before names were finalised

Chief Justice of India (CJI) NV Ramana on Wednesday expressed anguish at what he termed as "speculative" media reports on recommendations made by Supreme Court Collegium for appointment as judges of the top court.

The CJI said that the process was still underway and names have not been finalised yet and today's reports in the media would be counter-productive. It could also impact careers of judges and other persons recommended.

"My concern is about speculations of media report. The process of appointment is ongoing. It is a sacrosanct process. My media friends should understand this sacrosanct process. Today's report before finalising the process is counter productive. Careers get marred due to irresponsible reporting. I am extremely upset," he said.

He also thanked senior journalists for not publishing speculative reports.

"I am grateful that senior journalists have not speculated such a process. Such journalists are the strength of our democracy. I am deeply disappointed," he said.

The remarks were made by the CJI while sitting on a ceremonial Bench along with Justice Navin Sinha who is retiring as Supreme Court judge today.

Various news outlets had reported today that the Collegium had recommended 9 names for elevation to Supreme Court.

Bar & Bench had reported that while Collegium had recommended nine names, the minutes of the meeting of the Collegium were yet to be signed by the Collegium judges.