In Brief
The Supreme Court dismissed a public interest petition challenging the appointments of K.V. Chowdary as Central Vigilance Commissioner and T.M. Bhasin as Vigilance Commissioner. The petitioners alleged violations of institutional integrity standards. The Court held that judicial review of executive appointments is confined to examining the decision-making process's integrity, not the choice itself. Finding that the High Power Committee followed transparent procedures, considered all complaints and representations with inputs from investigative agencies, and took a unanimous decision, the Court found no procedural infirmity or illegality. The Court emphasised that courts cannot substitute their judgment for executive choice when appointees are qualified and the process is fair, just, and in accordance with statutory requirements.
The lawyer headnote and full judgment text are available to registered users.