Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s attendance at Ganesh Puja at Chief Justice DY Chandrachud’s residence on Wednesday has sparked debate about the separation of powers between the executive and the judiciary. Modi’s participation in the religious event, shared via social media, has led to concerns about potential undue proximity between these key branches of government.

The visit has been criticized by politicians and legal professionals who argue that such interactions could undermine the perceived impartiality of the judiciary. The scrutiny intensifies given the government’s significant role as a litigant in Indian courts, emphasizing the need for clear boundaries between the executive and judiciary.

Legal experts stress that maintaining judicial independence is essential to preserving democratic institutions. According to the Supreme Court’s 1997 restatement of values, judges should avoid actions that might erode public confidence in their impartiality, highlighting the importance of keeping a degree of separation from the executive branch.