Chief Justice of India (CJI): The Pillar of Indian Judiciary

The Chief Justice of India (CJI) is the highest-ranking judicial officer in India and serves as the head of the Supreme Court of India. As the chief of the judiciary, the CJI plays a crucial role in interpreting the Constitution, protecting the rights of citizens, ensuring justice is delivered impartially, and overseeing the functioning of the Indian judiciary. The position is one of immense responsibility, prestige, and power, with far-reaching implications for the legal landscape and governance of the country.

Constitutional and Legal Framework
The office of the Chief Justice of India is defined under Article 124 of the Indian Constitution, which grants the President of India the power to appoint the CJI. The CJI is typically the senior-most judge of the Supreme Court, though the Constitution does not mandate this. In practice, however, seniority plays a significant role in the selection process. The CJI holds office until the age of 65 or until resignation, whichever is earlier.

The CJI plays an essential role in ensuring the independence of the judiciary, a core principle enshrined in the Indian Constitution. As head of the judiciary, the CJI presides over hearings, allocates cases to different benches, and manages the overall functioning of the court. The CJI is also the final authority in matters related to judicial appointments and transfers.

Functions and Powers of the CJI

1. Presiding Officer of the Supreme Court: The CJI has the responsibility of overseeing the functioning of the Supreme Court. The CJI sits at the head of the bench in important cases and ensures that cases are heard in a fair and timely manner. The allocation of cases to various benches is done by the CJI, and this has significant implications for how the court operates.
2. Constitutional InterpreterThe CJI, as the head of the judiciary, plays a key role in the interpretation of the Indian Constitution. The decisions made by the Supreme Court, under the leadership of the CJI, can shape the understanding of fundamental rights, the structure of government, and the limits of state power.
3. Judicial IndependenceOne of the most critical roles of the CJI is to protect judicial independence. This includes resisting any undue influence or interference from the executive or legislature. The CJI also ensures the independence of lower courts by advocating for the proper functioning and independence of the judicial system.
4. Appointment of Judges: The CJI plays a central role in the appointment of judges to the Supreme Court and High Courts. This process, which was the subject of much debate, is governed by a system known as the collegium system. The CJI, along with other senior judges, makes recommendations to the President for judicial appointments and transfers.
5. Leader of the Judicial System: The CJI is often referred to as the "first among equals" in the judiciary, with the responsibility to guide the Indian judicial system. This includes overseeing the functioning of the Supreme Court, monitoring the administration of justice, and ensuring that the system is free from delays and corruption.
6. Public Interest Litigations (PIL): The CJI also plays a critical role in facilitating access to justice through Public Interest Litigations (PIL). Under this system, individuals or organizations can approach the court to address matters of public concern. The CJI, by taking suo moto cognizance or allowing PILs, can bring important social issues to the forefront.

The Collegium System
The appointment of judges to the Supreme Court and High Courts has often been a topic of debate, especially in the context of the Collegium System. This system allows a group of senior judges, led by the CJI, to make decisions on the appointment and transfer of judges. While the system was designed to ensure judicial independence, it has faced criticism for a lack of transparency and accountability. Despite this, the Collegium system remains a cornerstone of judicial appointments in India.

List of CJI