Way Forward

In a democracy all institutions, including the judiciary, must be transparent and accountable. Transparency in judicial functioning and accountability for judicial actions and inactions inspire public faith and confidence in the institution.

The higher judiciary can be brought under RTI Act with following limitations:

♤ Sub-judice case where disclosed information can influence judge’s verdict.

♤ Confidential information to maintain unity and integrity of nation.

♤ If the information does not deal with issue of a public importance and doesn’t affect the

person in any way.

The Chief Justice of India, as the high priest of the legal system, must uphold the RTI Act and realise that no institution can be considered credible and inspire public confidence unless it is open and transparent. The judiciary can only occupy the high moral ground it often claims, by setting an example, and leading from the frontlines of transparency; not by hiding behind the veil of secrecy.