Institutions can't be retirement homes

The "fourth branch" institutions such as the Election Commission, Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) and public service commissions "cannot be retirement homes for civil servants and judges", Supreme Court judge Justice P.S. Narasimha said on Sunday as he underlined the critical role of these institutions in upholding democratic governance.

- Utkarsh Anand

BENGALURU:

Justice Narasimha was speaking at the second Justice E.S. Venkataramiah Centennial Memorial Lecture in Bengaluru, an event to celebrate the life and legacy of India's 19th Chief Justice of India, whose illustrious career was deeply intertwined with the themes of institutional integrity and democratic governance. Justice Narasimha emphasized that the bodies under the fourth branch institutions must embody democratic values through collective decision-making, autonomy and accountability, calling for their reinvigoration to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving society.

"We need institutions that can withstand political tribulations, hold power-wielding officials accountable, and ensure a smooth democratic process," said the judge as he elaborated on the unique function of fourth branch institutions, which operate independently of three traditional organs of the state -- executive, legislature and judiciary. Citing the Election Commission as a prime example, Justice Narasimha praised the foresight of India's Constitution-makers in establishing an independent body to oversee elections. He recalled the evolution of the Commission from a single-member body to a three-member panel, a change upheld by the Supreme Court despite concerns about delays in decision-making.