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Judges' appointment

Sir, — The article `Retirement of judges' (Aug. 19) favours an increase in the retirement age of High Court Judges, comparing the system to that in the U.S. and the U.K. But the system of appointment of judges in the U.S. is entirely different.

If the same is adopted here, K. Subramanian's recommendation could be accepted.

In the U.S., federal judges are nominated by the President and confirmed by the Senate. This is an open and public process in which the strengths and weaknesses of particular individuals are fully aired and the candidates grilled by members of the Senate Judiciary Committee. It is this process and the rating given by the American Bar Association on the basis of an analysis of the qualifications, experience and ability of a candidate (judged on the basis of written briefs and published works, if any) which encourage the President to seek and nominate only highly qualified, competent and articulate candidates.

By contrast, any lawyer enrolled for 10 years or more can be sprung upon the people of India as a judge. In view of the crucial role the judiciary is expected to play in our turbulent times, transparency in appointments to the High Courts is a must and the Bar must demand it without further delay.

J. Krishnama Chary,
Chennai

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