‘Judgments must be free from influence’: What message did Justice Ujjal Bhuyan deliver to Assam judiciary?

At a special lecture in Guwahati on Sunday, Supreme Court judge Justice Ujjal Bhuyan underscored the vital importance of independence in judicial decision-making, warning that any external influence could erode public confidence in the judiciary.

Justice Bhuyan was speaking at the launch of the official website of the All Assam Judges Association, where he delivered a lecture on ‘Judicial Professionalism, Etiquette and Expectations from Judicial Officers’. He expressed optimism that the new digital platform would improve communication and strengthen the professional bond among judicial officers across the state.

Maintaining faith in judiciary

Justice Bhuyan stressed that the faith of citizens in the judicial system must remain unshaken, which can only be ensured through impartial and fair judgments. “For this, it is essential that judgments are pronounced in an atmosphere free from any form of external influence. The judiciary should never be seen to be bestowing any kind of favour,” he stated.

Upholding integrity and constitutional spirit

He urged district-level judicial officers to act pragmatically and always uphold the spirit of the Constitution while discharging their duties. Emphasising the importance of professional ethics, Justice Bhuyan advised judges to maintain distance from officials of other services and to exercise restraint in both their public and professional conduct.

Highlighting the crucial role of grassroots courts, he noted that a strong and credible district judiciary forms the foundation of stability and legitimacy at the higher judicial levels. Chief Justice of the Gauhati High Court, Justice Ashutosh Kumar, and other dignitaries were also present during the event.

Justice Ujjal Bhuyan’s comments come amid growing public discourse about the perception of judicial neutrality and professionalism in India. By emphasising independence and integrity at all levels, the Supreme Court judge reiterated that the judiciary’s legitimacy depends not only on verdicts but also on how judicial officers are viewed by society.

The newly launched website of the All Assam Judges Association is expected to enhance coordination among members of the judicial community in the state. The event was attended by senior judges, legal professionals, and administrative officials.
(With PTI inputs)