Opposition MPs move impeachment motion against judge over lamp-lighting row
What's the story
A group of MPs from the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) bloc has filed an impeachment notice against Madras High Court Judge GR Swaminathan. The notice, which carries 120 signatures, was submitted to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Tuesday. The motion was moved under Articles 217 read with 124 of the Constitution for Swaminathan's removal over his conduct in a recent case involving religious rituals at Thiruparankundram hills.
Allegations outlined
Impeachment notice alleges judicial bias and political influence
The impeachment notice accuses Judge Swaminathan of compromising judicial impartiality and transparency. It alleges he showed undue favor to a senior advocate and lawyers from a specific community. The notice also claims his verdicts were influenced by political ideology, violating secular constitutional principles. Copies of letters sent to the President of India and Chief Justice of India were included with the motion. The signatories include Akhilesh Yadav, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Gaurav Gogoi Supriya Sule, Arvind Sawant, among others.
Ritual dispute
Controversy over Karthigai Deepam lighting at Thiruparankundram
The controversy centers around a court order by Judge Swaminathan last week, allowing the lighting of the Karthigai Deepam lamp on Deebathun Pillar near a dargah. The order rejected objections from temple authorities and dargah management, stating it wouldn't infringe on Muslim community rights. It also allowed a small group of devotees to perform the ritual with security escort.
Government response
Tamil Nadu government refuses to implement court order
However, the Tamil Nadu government refused to implement the court order, citing law-and-order concerns. This led to protests by Hindu groups and clashes with police at the hilltop site during festival night. A Division Bench of Madras High Court later upheld Judge Swaminathan's order, but the authorities' appeal was dismissed. The Tamil Nadu government then filed a Special Leave Petition in Supreme Court against this verdict.