Video: 'Supreme Court Doors Are Open to Everyone' — CJI Explains Decision to Decline Meeting with Opposition Leaders

The Chief Justice of India has declined a request for a personal meeting sought by a delegation of MPs belonging to the opposition INDIA bloc. Amid high political drama and planned protest marches in the national capital, the Chief Justice clarified that he had officially responded via a letter outlining the reasons why the meeting could not take place.

Reiterating the constitutional mandate and open doors of the judiciary, the Chief Justice stressed that judicial proceedings must follow established legal mechanisms rather than private or administrative meetings on matters of public contention.

'Every Citizen Has the Constitutional Right to Approach the Court'

Addressing questions regarding the opposition's request and planned march, the Chief Justice stated, 'I received a letter yesterday regarding a meeting request, and I responded to it last night, outlining the reasons why I will be unable to meet.' He maintained that communication had been directly established with the leaders who signed the memorandum.

He further remarked: 'The Supreme Court\'s doors are open to everyone. Any petition from any common citizen or member of an elected body is welcome. Every Indian citizen has the right to approach the court, and we will hear their concerns and grant whatever is due under the law.'

Sub-Judice Matters and Judicial Protocol

According to sources familiar with the matter, several issues that opposition leaders intended to bring forward are already pending or sub-judice before judicial benches. Under long-standing judicial norms and ethics, judges refrain from entertaining delegations on topics undergoing formal judicial scrutiny outside the courtroom.

The clarification came on a day marked by heightened security across parts of the national capital due to planned demonstrations. The Chief Justice\'s unambiguous statement reinforced that institutional avenues through formal petitions remain the only legitimate recourse for adjudication in the apex court.