"The collegium system has become a victim of its own success, with the concentration of power in the hands of a few, leading to questions about its legitimacy." Comment.

1. Got independence of judiciary but raised questions about ⊙ legitimacy - extra constitutional ⊙ transparency - as seen with Justice Tahilramani transfer. ⊙ Favouritism - due to the Uncle Judge syndrome.

2. Violates the principle of checks and balances - as in Bhim Singh case

3. Goes against the constitutional morality of limited powers..

4. No other country has judges appointing judges.

However this is not entirely true.

1. Brought to ensure independence of judiciary → has ensured so far

2. Upheld the power of appointment of judges without executive biases. → separation of power Art 50

3. Was brought to curb executive whims in appointing their favourites. → has upheld that principle (Ex: during emergency saw favouritism.)

Way Ahead

1. Uphold the distribution of power with transparency - publish the criteria for appointment.

2. Executive needs to collaborate with judiciary - work together for spirit of Constitution.