Abhishek Banerjee slams CEC panel change, warns of threat to judicial independence

Trinamool Congress leader Abhishek Banerjee on Tuesday raised concerns over what he described as a “troubling decline” in India’s institutional framework, linking recent changes to the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) selection process with broader fears about judicial independence.

In a message posted on his WhatsApp channel, Banerjee criticised the removal of the Chief Justice of India from the panel responsible for appointing the CEC.

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“This is precisely why judicial authority was diluted and the Chief Justice of India was removed from the CEC selection panel. If this trajectory continues, it won’t be long before Supreme Court judgments appear politically stamped,” he said.

His remarks come amid an ongoing political debate over the composition of the CEC selection committee, which was revised through legislation passed by Parliament.

The change replaced the Chief Justice of India with a Union Cabinet minister on the panel, a move that has drawn criticism from opposition parties, who argue it weakens institutional checks and balances.

Banerjee accused those in power of undermining constitutional safeguards for political gain.

“Those sworn to protect the Constitution are now chipping away at its very foundations to serve narrow political ends—a betrayal of both duty and democracy,” he said, underscoring his concerns in strong terms.

The Trinamool leader’s comments reflect a broader opposition narrative that key democratic institutions are facing increasing pressure.

The government, however, has defended the changes, maintaining that the revised selection mechanism remains within constitutional provisions and ensures executive accountability.

Warning about the state of democratic institutions, Banerjee added, “What a troubling decline for our institutions.”