In a path breaking move that could reshape the very edifice of judicial appointments, the Supreme Court Collegium has decided to personally interview advocates recommended by High Court Collegiums for elevation as High Court judges. This marks a tectonic shift from the longstanding practice of relying solely on dossiers, service records, intelligence reports, and feedback from constitutional authorities.

The man at the centre of this innovation is Chief Justice Sanjeev Khanna, whose reformist zeal has triggered a wave of reactions across legal circles. While many hail it as a bold leap towards transparency and meritocracy, sceptics warn of potential pitfalls, including subjectivity and the erosion of federal balance in judicial appointments.

What does it mean for the future of the Indian judiciary?

The Interview Innovation: Winds of Change

1st. Transparency and Accountability Get a Boost
For the first time, aspirants will present themselves directly before the highest judges of the land. The Collegium now goes beyond written summaries, allowing a holistic assessment of demeanour, intellect, articulation, and ideological bearing. No longer will judges be chosen solely based on file noting or vague intelligence inputs. This face-to-face interaction trims down the influence of hidden lobbies and subjective feedback from local networks.

2nd. Uniformity across a Diverse Judicial Landscape
With over 25 High Courts operating under different yardsticks, disparity in standards has often been the norm. The Supreme Court’s direct interface with all candidates creates a centralised benchmark of legal competence and integrity. A common filter can prevent regional variations from dictating judicial........

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