Parliamentary panel’s informal meeting with CJI, SC judges called off due to “unfortunate circumstances caused by vested interests”: DMK MP P Wilson
DMK MP P Wilson expresses sadness after the JPC meeting with CJI and Supreme Court judges was called off due to political objections and vested interests.
In a stinging rebuke to political detractors, DMK Rajya Sabha MP P Wilson has claimed that a crucial opportunity for the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) to consult the judiciary has been snatched away by "vested interests."
The proposed informal meeting between the JPC—currently examining the 'One Nation, One Election' (ONOE) Bills—and the Chief Justice of India (CJI) along with other Supreme Court judges has been officially called off following intense political controversy.
A Lost Opportunity for Constitutional Clarity
Expressing "great pain and sadness," P Wilson stated that the committee has missed a vital chance to gain institutional perspectives on a reform of massive national significance. The panel, chaired by BJP MP PP Choudhary, had been working to identify the legal, financial, and administrative consequences of the ONOE proposal.
Wilson clarified that his suggestion for a "study tour" to hear from the judiciary was intended to strengthen the Bill by addressing potential constitutional concerns. He noted that the process had already reached an advanced stage:
- Permission was sought through the Secretary General of the Supreme Court.
- The Chief Justice of India had reportedly granted approval.
- The Committee Secretariat had exchanged communications with the CJI's office.
- Delegation members had been discussed and the meeting was being finalized.
However, the process hit a wall when political objections surfaced, leading to the decision to scrap the interaction entirely.
Defending the Separation of Powers
Addressing the criticism that such a meeting might violate the principle of separation of powers, Wilson argued that the three organs of the State should not operate in "watertight compartments." He maintained that seeking informal views is fundamentally different from seeking a legal adjudication.
"We are not asking the views of the Supreme Court. We are asking for their views in their individual capacity, as stakeholders in democracy," Wilson stated in a letter to the panel.
He further dismissed concerns that such consultations could compromise the judiciary's future role. He argued that if judges provide input now, it does not prevent the constitutional courts from hearing challenges to the legislation once it is enacted. To suggest otherwise, he claimed, "undermines the ability and integrity of the judiciary."
DMK’s Firm Stance on ONOE
In an effort to prevent his remarks from being misconstrued, the DMK MP reiterated that his push for judicial consultation does not signal any change in his party's political stance. He emphasized that the DMK remains unequivocally opposed to the One Nation, One Election Bill.
"Our opposition to this Bill is firm, consistent and unwavering," Wilson said, noting that party leader MK Stalin has maintained a clear position against the reform. He clarified that his interest was strictly in obtaining the judiciary's institutional perspective to ensure the committee's work was as comprehensive as possible.