Chief Justice of India (CJI) D.Y. Chandrachud, speaking at the 10th All India Conference of the Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT) in New Delhi, emphasized the critical need for tribunal members—particularly non-judicial appointees—to uphold independence and impartiality in their decision-making processes.
Addressing concerns over perceived bias, CJI Gavai noted that non-judicial members, often retired bureaucrats, tend to avoid issuing orders against the government. He urged them to introspect and reaffirm their commitment to judicial fairness, stating that tribunals must function as independent adjudicatory bodies and not as extensions of the executive.
He highlighted the unique composition of tribunals, which blend judicial and administrative expertise. While this structure offers valuable diversity, CJI Gavai stressed the importance of continuous training to ensure uniform standards. He recommended that judicial members be exposed to administrative processes, while administrative members receive legal training to strengthen their adjudicatory capabilities.
The Chief Justice also called for a transparent and uniform appointment process for tribunal members, with clearly defined eligibility criteria. He argued that such reforms would enhance public confidence and reduce arbitrariness in appointments.
Addressing the issue of excessive litigation, CJI Gavai pointed out that appeals continue to reach the Supreme Court even when both CAT and High Courts have concurred. He proposed the establishment of a central agency to filter appeals, which could help reduce pendency and improve judicial efficiency.
In addition, he advocated for improved service conditions for tribunal members to attract qualified retired judges and judicial officers, thereby enhancing the overall quality of tribunal adjudication.
Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal, also present at the conference, echoed the need for introspection and reform. He emphasized the importance of adapting tribunal operations to emerging challenges, including the integration of artificial intelligence and digital technologies.
The conference concluded with a collective call to strengthen the independence, competence, and credibility of India’s tribunal system through structural reforms and capacity building.
