A candidate’s political history should not automatically disqualify them from being appointed as a judge, as underscored by the Supreme Court of India’s collegium, which includes Chief Justice of India Dhananjaya Y Chandrachud. This statement was made following the central government’s reservations regarding the appointment of Manoj Pulamby Madhavan, perceived as a CPI(M) sympathiser, to the Kerala High Court.
Despite the center’s objections based on Madhavan’s alleged political leanings—which were regarded as ‘extremely vague’ by the collegium—the judicial body defended Madhavan’s eligibility. The collegium, referencing the recent appointment of L Victoria Gowri, a former BJP leader, to the Madras High Court without any government objections, highlighted the inconsistency in the application of criteria regarding political affiliations.
Moreover, the collegium dismissed the central government’s concerns about Madhavan’s tenure as government pleader, asserting that such professional experience, particularly in handling cases where the state is a party, demonstrates his suitability for the role of a high court judge. Alongside Madhavan, the collegium has also recommended five other legal professionals for the Kerala High Court, emphasizing that judgments regarding professional competence should rest with the judiciary. The collegium has thus reaffirmed its stance for an unbiased and competent judicial appointment process, free from politicization.