CJI’s pledge not to accept post-retirement roles laudable

CHIEF Justice of India BR Gavai’s pledge to not accept any post-retirement roles or positions from the government infuses a much needed dose of institutional integrity. This commitment by him and many of his colleagues, he has said, is an effort to preserve the credibility and independence of the judiciary. CJI Gavai has hit the nail on the head with his contention that judges taking up government appointments immediately after retirement or resigning to contest elections raises significant ethical concerns and invites public scrutiny. Any perception of a conflict of interest or an attempt to gain favour only adds to the trust deficit. An earnest hope is that the CJI’s bold stand on the issue sets a new benchmark in ethical leadership — followed in letter and spirit.