In a strategic manoeuvre, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju has bid farewell to the Law and Justice Ministry, giving rise to anticipation that conflicts with the judiciary may find respite. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s calculated decision to orchestrate this change seems aimed at defusing tensions and avoiding further escalations during his remaining tenure. While additional factors likely influenced Rijiju’s transfer to the Ministry of Earth Sciences and the appointment of Arjun Ram Meghwal as Minister of State, the noticeable decline in Rijiju’s vocal criticisms against the Supreme Court collegium indicates a genuine effort to temper his penchant for confrontation.
It is undeniable that the executive and the judiciary have experienced a frosty relationship, marked by inaction and delays on some recommendations. However, recent months have witnessed a surprising surge in appointments, including those within the esteemed Supreme Court, hinting at a possible thaw between the two branches of government. This positive trend suggests that the government is actively seeking to mend relations and bridge the divide that has long plagued their interactions.
While Kiren Rijiju’s fervent criticism of the collegium system, shared by many others in search of reforms, should not be disregarded, his role as a portfolio holder necessitates a measured and prudent approach when dealing with members of the esteemed judiciary. Past instances revealed a propensity for trenchant opinions unbecoming of his position, such as accusing retired judges of constituting an “anti-India gang” or expressing concerns about the collegium’s public disclosure of sensitive intelligence inputs. Hence, his relocation to the Ministry of Earth Sciences is seen as an opportunity to temper his confrontational tendencies and foster a more harmonious environment for constructive engagement.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s decision to appoint Arjun Ram Meghwal as Minister of State with independent charge in the Law Ministry also bears significance beyond the immediate reshuffling. Meghwal, hailing from the reserved constituency of Bikaner in Rajasthan, not only brings a fresh perspective to the ministry but also caters to the potential need for accommodating regional interests. With the upcoming Rajasthan Assembly elections on the horizon, this move showcases the Prime Minister’s astuteness in balancing political considerations while ensuring the portfolio gains a higher profile.
Of utmost importance is the pressing need to address judicial reforms. The finalization of a new Memorandum of Procedure for judicial appointments remains a crucial challenge that demands swift resolution. Kiren Rijiju had earlier underscored the government’s insistence on expediting this process, suggesting the establishment of a ‘search-cum-evaluation committee’ with government representation for selecting Supreme Court judges and Chief Justices. It is expected that the government will continue to prioritize these initiatives and give them the attention they deserve. However, caution must be exercised to ensure that the government’s commitment to reform does not inadvertently project an inclination towards exerting absolute control over judicial appointments.
The departure of Kiren Rijiju from the Law Ministry presents a turning point where hopes for a more amicable executive-judiciary relationship can flourish. By toning down confrontations and placing emphasis on judicial reforms, the government aims to foster an environment of transparency, efficiency, and collaboration. It is imperative that the delicate balance between government involvement and the judiciary’s independence is maintained, creating a foundation for a more robust democracy and the unwavering pursuit of justice within the Indian landscape.