Ashish Goel

Justice D.Y. Chandrachud’s conduct raises serious questions about the sufficiency of ethical standards for Supreme Court judges, and it is time an enforceable code of conduct is drawn and religiously implemented, writes Ashish Goel.

The revocation of the philanthropic status of the Reporters' Collective, which has consistently produced critical journalism, from covering Electoral Bonds to Adani, for purposes of income tax exemption, cannot be viewed in a vacuum. If anything, it is an indication of how majoritarian governments do not hesitate from weaponising tax law to stifle the press.

In silence, haste and the shadow of mainstream discourse, India brought in a new Income Tax Act in August. Until put through exacting constitutional scrutiny, the expansion of search and seizure power to “digital space” could financially cripple critical journalism and civil society.

As a matter of judicial discipline, all judges should be explicitly barred from using judicial honorifics after retirement. This includes the use of words ‘former Justice’ or ‘retired Justice’ or ‘Hon’ble’ in court documents and in oral hearings.