No tension during Ambani gas issue: Chief Justice

A day before he steps down, Chief Justice of India Justice K G Balakrishnan has come out in strong defence of his colleagues at a time when the credibility and image of judiciary has taken a hit.

Speaking exclusively to CNN IBN on a range of issues, the outgoing Chief Justice of India bared his heart.

When asked if he felt pressurised during the recent Ambani gas dispute, the Chief Justice said, "I have never felt any pressure in any case that I have heard "

When pressed further, if anyone from the government had attempted to influence the case, the Chief Justice said, "People don't understand the working of judiciary. No politician will like to come and meet a judge. He will be in trouble. Suppose the judge exposes him, his political career can be in danger."

When asked if he felt hut by the growing number of cases of judicial corruption during his tenure, he said "Corruption will always bother anyone. But considering the number of cases and judges, its actually miniscule. Situation is not very serious."

When asked if he had indeed transferred Justice Dinakaran to Sikkim high court and if he felt sad about serious allegations against a senior judge, the CJI said, "I felt sorry that some motives were attached to me as well. We work systematically following all norms."

When asked if the credibility of judges was not taking a hit as a number of them go onto accept government posts after their retirement, he said, "There are so many tribunals that have to be manned by retired judges of SC. There is TDSAT (Telecom Disputes Settlement & Appellate Tribunal), etc. People think that SC judges may favour the government to get these posts, but now actually it is the other way. The government wants us there."

When asked if he himself was considering taking up a government post after retirement, He said, "I have not made up my mind as yet."

Image: Chief Justice of India Justice K G Balakrishnan.