The Supreme Court recently overturned an order from the Andhra Pradesh High Court, which had criticized the apex court Collegium’s decision to transfer two Chief Justices and accused Chief Minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy of attempting to undermine it.
Background
- The High Court order was issued by Justice Rakesh Kumar on December 30, 2020, during the adjudication of a case regarding a challenge to the auction of state land.
- Justice Kumar expressed concerns over the transfer of Andhra Pradesh Chief Justice Maheshwari by the Supreme Court collegium, suggesting potential undue benefits for the state government.
Supreme Court’s Decision
- Justices Bela M Trivedi and Pankaj Mithal, comprising the bench, set aside the observations made in the High Court’s order and resolved the matter.
- The Andhra Pradesh government had appealed against Justice Kumar’s judgment.
Implications
- The observations made by Justice Kumar implied a deterioration of impartiality and integrity in the judicial system.
- There were allegations of attempts by the state government to undermine various constitutional bodies, including the Legislative Council, State Election Commission, and now, the High Court and even the Supreme Court.
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):
- What action did the Supreme Court take regarding the Andhra Pradesh High Court order?
- A) It affirmed the order.
- B) It set aside the observations made in the order.
- C) It issued a new directive to the High Court.
- D) It referred the matter back to the High Court.
- Which Chief Justice’s transfer was mentioned in the High Court order?
- A) Chief Justice Trivedi
- B) Chief Justice Mithal
- C) Chief Justice Maheshwari
- D) Chief Justice Kumar
- What were the concerns raised by Justice Kumar in his judgment?
- A) Allegations against the Chief Minister
- B) Potential interference by the apex court Collegium
- C) Integrity issues within the judiciary
- D) All of the above