SC Judges Stress Ethics and Democratic Accountability

Justice Ujjal Bhuyan and Justice B.V. Nagarathna have recently emphasized the fundamental importance of critical questioning and ethical integrity within the legal profession and academia. During separate addresses, they noted that students should never be penalized for asking questions, as intolerance is diametrically opposed to the spirit of the Constitution. They underscored that democratic health depends on the free exchange of ideas and the absence of fear in academic environments.

Justice B.V. Nagarathna further criticized the current state of professional bodies, stating that it is a poor sign for democracy if the Bar Council of India loses the respect of its members. Her comments followed a period of debate regarding the Council’s policy stances and its internal ethics. She urged lawyers and law graduates to perceive the law not as a commercial venture but as a noble profession serving social justice and democratic values.

The warnings from these senior judges reflect an ongoing effort to reinforce judicial and institutional independence. They specifically cautioned against the rise of AI-generated misinformation within the legal community, including fake court orders. These remarks serve as a call for self-reflection among legal practitioners and regulatory bodies alike. The judiciary continues to assert its role as the guardian of constitutional values against the backdrop of changing professional and technological landscapes.