New Delhi/Srinagar, Dec 9:
A group of retired judges has issued a strong public statement denouncing what they describe as growing attempts to undermine the credibility of the Supreme Court and target the Chief Justice of India over recent judicial proceedings connected to Rohingya migrants.
The former judges expressed serious concern over what they termed “unwarranted criticism” directed at the Chief Justice following the Court’s order on December 6. They said that while judicial decisions may be debated, any effort to question the personal integrity or fairness of judges crosses a dangerous line and threatens the independence of the judiciary.
The signatories emphasized that India, though historically compassionate toward displaced communities, is not legally bound under any international treaty to accept illegal entry across its borders. They also highlighted that India is not a signatory to the 1951 UN Refugee Convention, reinforcing that national authorities have the right to regulate the entry and stay of foreign nationals.
A major concern raised in the statement relates to reports of illegal Aadhaar enrolment among foreign migrants. The judges stressed that unauthorized access to Aadhaar and other identity documents poses a direct national security risk and must be thoroughly investigated. They supported the demand for a court-monitored Special Investigation Team (SIT) to identify those involved in issuing such documents and to expose any trafficking networks operating behind the scenes.
The retired judges also noted that while the humanitarian situation of Rohingya in Myanmar is distressing, the issue cannot be viewed in isolation from India’s security and legal framework. They said the Supreme Court’s directions were balanced, rooted in constitutional limits, and guided by a commitment to protect both national interest and human dignity.
Rejecting allegations of bias, the statement praises the judiciary for acting responsibly and upholding the rule of law. Any attempt to cast aspersions on the Supreme Court, they warned, weakens public trust and undermines judicial independence.
The statement concludes with a reaffirmation of “full confidence” in the Supreme Court of India and the Chief Justice, calling for restraint and responsible public discourse on such sensitive matters.
