GK Question

polity hard mcq

Proposed reforms to the collegium system for judicial appointments include all EXCEPT:

  1. Publishing criteria for selection
  2. Fixed timelines for decisions
  3. Secretariat to assist with data
  4. Direct election of judges by citizens

Answer: Direct election of judges by citizens

Collegium reform proposals (2020-2024): (a) Transparency measures: (i) Publishing criteria for selection (merit, integrity, diversity), (ii) Secretariat to assist collegium with background checks, data analysis, (iii) Fixed timelines for decisions to reduce vacancies, (iv) Limited executive input without veto power, (b) Counter-arguments: (i) Any executive role risks political interference, (ii) Judicial independence paramount for constitutional review, (iii) Collegium's insularity protects against political pressure, (c) Rejected proposal: Direct election of judges (not seriously considered; would politicize judiciary, undermine independence), (d) Status: No consensus yet; collegium system continues with incremental improvements. Illustrates tension between accountability and independence: reform debate reflects deeper questions about judicial role in constitutional democracy.

Topic Judicial Appointments - Collegium Transparency Reforms
Exam Relevance Judicial appointments reform debate critical for UPSC Mains and Judiciary exams
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