what are constitutional provision to make the judiciary independent
Answers
Answer:
Article 50 of the Constitution of India provides for the separation of judiciary from the executive. To maintain the independence of the Supreme Court article constitution prohibits the retired judges to plead or act in any court or before any authority within the territory of India.
Answer:
The Constitution of proviences independence of judiciary by: (i) protecting salaries and service conditions of judges. (ii) prohibiting the judges from carrying on practice in courts of law after retirement. (iii) providing Single judiciary.
Firstly, the judges of the Supreme Court and the High Courts have to take an oath before entering office that they will faithfully perform their duties without fear, favour, affection, ill-will, and defend the constitution of India and the laws. Recognition of the doctrine of constitutional sovereignty is implicit in this oath.
Secondly, the process of appointment of judges also ensures the independence of judiciary in India. The judges of the Supreme Court and the High Courts are appointed by the President. The constitution of India has made it obligatory on the President to make the appointments in consultation with the highest judicial authorities. He of course takes advice of the Cabinet. The constitution also prescribes necessary qualifications for such appointments. The constitution tries to make the appointments unbiased by political considerations.
Thirdly, the Constitution provides for the security of tenure of Judges. The judges of the Supreme Court and the High Court’s serve “during good behavior” and not during the pleasure of the President, as is the case with other high Government officials. They cannot be arbitrarily removed by the President. They may be removed from office only through impeachment. A Judge can be removed on the ground of proved misbehavior or incapacity on a report by both Houses of Parliament supported by a special majority.
Fourthly, their salaries and allowances are charged upon the Consolidated Fund of India. Further, the salaries and allowances of Judges of Supreme court and High courts cannot be reduced during their tenure, except during a financial emergency under Article 360 of the constitution.
Fifthly, the activities of the Judges cannot be discussed by the executive or the legislature, except in case of removal of them.
Sixth, the retirement age is 65 years for Supreme court judges and 62 years for High court judges. Such long tenure enable the judges to function impartially and independently.
Seventh, a retired Supreme court judge cannot practice engage in legal practice in any court in India. However, a retired High court judge can practice law in a state other than the state in which he served as a High Court judge. These restrictions ensure that a retired judge is not able to influence the decision of the courts.