Did BJP Criticize Congress Over Madras HC Judge Impeachment?
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Key Takeaways
New Delhi, Dec 10 (NationPress) The political conflict escalated on Wednesday when the DMK filed a notice containing 120 signatures to the Speaker, requesting impeachment proceedings against Madras High Court Judge G.R. Swaminathan.
In a sharp rebuttal, the BJP accused the Opposition of trying to manipulate voter sentiments in light of the forthcoming Tamil Nadu elections.
On the other hand, the Congress and the Azad Samaj Party (Kanshiram) supported the impeachment initiative, asserting that this is a significant constitutional process that warrants careful consideration.
BJP MP Dinesh Sharma condemned the action, stating, “When situations don’t favor them, they attempt to twist it for their advantage. They mistakenly believe they hold power. It’s merely a case of inflated ego and misunderstanding. Such actions will only lead to their downfall, and they have become a source of ridicule.”
BJP MP Manan Kumar Mishra labeled the Opposition’s actions, including those of the DMK and Akhilesh Yadav, as absurd. “What’s wrong with lighting a lamp in a temple? The court has merely requested security and permission. I see no fault in the court’s actions. If impeachment motions are filed for every issue, it turns into a farce. This impeachment will not proceed. They aim to polarize due to the upcoming Tamil Nadu elections, but it won’t benefit them.”
Conversely, the Congress endorsed the impeachment notice.
Congress MP Pramod Tiwari commented, “This is a constitutional procedure. It adheres to the rules. After acquiring the necessary signatures, it is the Speaker’s duty to consider it. The Speaker must act in accordance with the Constitution.”
Congress MP Chamala Kiran Kumar Reddy remarked, “This nation is democratic and secular. If anything contradicts the public's sentiments, it’s natural for any political party, be it BJP or DMK, to voice concerns. Opposition leaders have signed the petition; let the BJP express its views.”
Congress MP Ujjwal Raman Singh stated, “There’s nothing to fear. The Constitution grants us this right, and we are acting within its framework. It’s up to the Lok Sabha Speaker to decide. If impeachment is initiated, it’s a grave matter that must be treated with seriousness.”
Congress MP Manish Tewari insisted, “This is the constitutional right of Parliament members. If MPs perceive any wrongdoing within the judiciary, the Constitution empowers them to file an impeachment motion. Following this, an inquiry will be conducted under the Judges' Inquiry Act.”
Azad Samaj Party (Kanshiram) President and MP Chandrashekhar Azad also supported the impeachment initiative, stating, “I disregard what the BJP claims. When decisions are based on faith rather than reason, doubts will arise. The Constitution grants us rights—if sufficient support exists, impeachment can proceed. I back this move. It is unacceptable for verdicts to be swayed by anything other than law. Political parties may act this way, but judicial behavior like this is intolerable. I align with the INDIA bloc; a thorough investigation is necessary.”
According to the impeachment notice dated December 9, 2025, the motion was submitted under Articles 217 in conjunction with 124 of the Constitution for the dismissal of the Madras High Court judge.
The notice alleged that the judge’s behavior raised questions about judicial impartiality and transparency. It accused him of exhibiting undue favoritism towards a senior advocate and lawyers from a specific community, claiming his rulings were influenced by political ideology, thus breaching secular constitutional principles.