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Let’s salute our Judiciary
Judicial activism has brought in a level of accountability which was non existent till now. Be it bureaucrats, politicians or businessmen, the Supreme Court is ensuring that they are all transparent in their dealings; those who are not are being brought to book. From the 2G scam, CWG scam, Adarsh scam, CAG report... the SC is making sure that people get punished for wrongdoing. This Independence Day let’s celebrate judicial activism.
Rajiv Pratap Rudy, MP and BJP spokesperson
When the Adarsh housing scam broke out, it was the judiciary which eventually forced the government to act. Further, despite Opposition parties raising the issue of 2G spectrum allocation scam for over two years, it was only after the Supreme Court intervened that action was taken against those involved and the CBI took some firm action against the guilty. Even on the issue of black money which had been raised by senior leader, L K Advani, during the general elections of 2009, it was only after the apex court intervened and set up a monitoring team, we are seeing some action on part of the government. Judicial activism has helped in bringing the guilty to book.
Hema Malini MP, BJP
We Indians earlier fought for freedom from foreign rule. Today we fight for freedom from corruption. Thankfully, since corruption is now being taken care of at all levels by the respective authorities it certainly looks like we, the people, can look forward to a progressive and vibrant economy, free from all malpractices of people in power. Though the present situation is highly chaotic, we do hope that we are able to celebrate our Independence Day, every year, with much enthusiasm.
Anupam Kher, Actor
I would see judicial activism as a result of the failure on the part of the government in setting things right. Had our system been efficient in handling these issues, the judiciary wouldn’t have intervened. However, having said that, I am extremely thankful to the judiciary for finally stepping in and taking charge of things. “Judicial activism” is just a term coined to highlight judiciary’s role in society. It’s our judiciary's job to set things right instead of calling it activism. I think we should celebrate our democracy and our right to freedom, which is not available to people in many other countries. I am definitely proud about our cultural diversity which keeps us going and keeps our democracy strong in many ways. Every family has its own ups and downs and India is no different. At times we may become cynical, but there’s always something to look forward to.
Milind Deora, MP
The judiciary plays a crucial role in the governance of this country and has ensured that justice prevails at all levels. We should certainly celebrate its significance on this independence day. And apart from the judiciary, we should also celebrate our democracy, freedom and all our credible institutions in India including our parliamentary system.
Pankaj Kapur, Actor
It’s time we start seeing corruption as a serious threat to the integrity of our nation. As a citizen of India, I am pleased to see the developments that have taken place in the recent past. I would like to see more such facades to be taken off so that ugly faces of the culprits can lie bare.
P.P. Rao, Associate President, Bar Association of India and Padma Bhushan awardee.
Judicial activism is necessary. However, it should not cross the constitutional boundaries. Disrespect towards the other two coordinate wings, namely, the Legislature and the Executive is not to be mistaken for judicial activism. Judicial power is very vast and to exercise this power wisely and properly, competent judges with impeccable integrity are required. The present system of selection of judges to Supreme court and High Courts is not satisfactory. The quality of judges appointed should be of the highest order so that they may check corruption with an iron hand in order to uphold the Constitution and the law.

Pradeep Sarkar, Filmmaker
Today’s India looks bright and promising. Independence day reminds me of the responsibilities I have as a citizen of this country. I choose to overlook the faults and the negative aspects of our country. Yes, there is corruption and the system too needs to be changed. But there are problems in every country. Today, the Indian market is flourishing and the citizens are more responsible. This is a big progress and we must acknowledge that.