I don’t think there is such a serious problem. Most of the judges are doing a good job. As it (HC) caters to two states, it is sometimes difficult to maintain the proportion. Then state politics of Punjab and Haryana also plays a part. They (judges) hear so many cases with political overtones. But the Chief Justice (Tirath Singh Thakur) is doing a very good job.

What went wrong in the case of Justice Nirmal Yadav of the same HC? We have been told that the CBI, which is investigating the cash-at-judge’s doorstep case, went overboard, exceeded its brief?

The CBI was not asked to inquire into a particular issue. The police had registered the case but it was handed over to the CBI as HC Chief Justice wanted it. Since the case pertained to judges, he was concerned about the prestige of the judiciary. He asked me and I said alright. The CBI did its investigation. But Attorney General gave an adverse opinion when they (CBI) wanted to prosecute.

There were differences within the CBI too — the CBI Director wanted prosecution while the agency’s Director of Prosecution opposed?

Yes, I saw the opinion of the Director. But when the AG gave the opinion, the matter ended. Had the AG’s opinion been positive, they would have sought my opinion. But that stage didn’t come. The CBI has to give a final report.

There have been reports about the Punjab Vigilance Bureau tapping phones, saying cases and appointments in lower judiciary were being fixed, with the connivance of sitting judges. What is your view?

... contd.