New Delhi: Chief Justice of India D Y Chandrachud clarified on Thursday that the bail plea of AAP leader Satyendar Jain, facing money laundering charges, was moved to a different bench due to Justice A S Bopanna’s absence after Diwali for medical reasons. Senior Advocate A M Singhvi, representing Jain, raised concerns about the case being reassigned to Justice Bela M Trivedi, urging deferment until Justice Bopanna’s return.
The CJI explained that Justice Bopanna, due to medical reasons, requested his matters to be transferred, and Justice Trivedi, who previously heard the case, took over. The CJI refused to intervene, stating, “I will not control what the judge is doing.” Later, he clarified that Justice Bopanna himself requested the transfer. During the post-lunch session, the CJI expressed surprise at the bar’s insistence on a particular judge, emphasizing that the judge handling the case would decide.
Subsequently, the matter was taken up by a bench of Justices Trivedi and S C Sharma, extending Jain’s interim medical bail until January 8. The SC had initially granted him interim bail on May 26, after the High Court denied bail. Jain, the former health minister in the AAP Delhi government, faces a probe related to money laundering charges.
The episode highlights procedural nuances and the judiciary’s autonomy in case assignments. Justice Bopanna’s medical leave prompted the reassignment, emphasizing the judiciary’s commitment to ensuring continuous proceedings. The CJI’s refusal to interfere underscores the principle of judicial independence, asserting that judges handling cases have the prerogative to decide on proceedings. The clarification aims to address concerns raised by the defense and emphasizes adherence to established legal processes.
As the case unfolds, it underscores the intricate balance between legal proceedings, judicial autonomy, and the need for clarity in communication to maintain the integrity of legal processes.
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