Need discussion on powers, limitations of judiciary, executive, legislature: Naidu

Rajya Sabha Chairman and Vice-President M Venkaiah Naidu on Monday said the House needs to discuss the powers and limitations of the three pillars of democracy — judiciary, legislature and executive — as a member made a strong case for an all-India examination for selection of judges in high courts and the Supreme Court.

Raising the issue during the Zero Hour in the House, BJP member Ashok Bajpai said the Constitution does not mention the word ‘collegium’, though it is currently being used for appointments and transfers of judges in the higher judiciary.

Bajpai said recently an Allahabad High Court judge had written to the Prime Minister that appointments are not being made on the basis of merit.

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He suggested that there should be an all-India examination conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) to ensure that meritorious candidates get into higher judiciary.

Members cutting across party lines endorsed Bajpai’s suggestion.

Chairman Naidu said as overwhelming members are of the same opinion, “we need to discuss” during one of the discussions, particularly the issue of the judiciary, legislature and executive and their powers and limitations.

“…and then what is happening and all that has to be discussed one day,” he added.