'Very disturbing': Supreme Court stays Lokpal ruling against HC judges
What's the story
The Supreme Court of India has stayed a recent Lokpal order that it can entertain complaints against high court judges under the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013.
Calling this development "something very very disturbing," the bench comprising Justices BR Gavai, Surya Kant, and Abhay S Oka has issued notices to the Union of India and the Registrar of Lokpal.
Legal debate
Central government argues against Lokpal's jurisdiction
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Central government, argued that the interpretation was wrong and that high court judges do not come under the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013.
He said "each judge is the high court."
Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal also raised concerns, calling it "exceptionally disturbing" and "fraught with danger," while seeking a stay on the Lokpal order.
Case background
Lokpal ruling stems from complaints against High Court judge
The controversy arose from two complaints against a high court judge for allegedly influencing an additional district judge and another HC judge in a legal suit.
The Lokpal's Full Bench, headed by Justice AM Khanwilkar, ruled that HC judges are 'public servants' under the Act.
However, it deferred further action awaiting guidance from the Chief Justice of India (CJI).
Information embargo
Supreme Court prohibits disclosure of judge's name
The complaints were sent to the CJI for consideration, with further action deferred for four weeks.
On Thursday, the Supreme Court prohibited the individual who filed complaints against the high court judge before Lokpal from publishing the judge's name or the contents of the allegations.
The matter has been listed for further hearing on March 21.