In Brief
The Supreme Court examined the constitutionality of the 2020 Rules governing tribunal member appointments, qualifications, tenure, and service conditions. The Court held that while the Legislature may transfer judicial functions to tribunals, they must remain independent of executive control to uphold the rule of law. The 2020 Rules were partly invalidated for lacking judicial dominance in selection committees and imposing inadequate tenure. The Court directed: establishment of a National Tribunals Commission for autonomous oversight; composition of selection committees with judicial dominance and voting restrictions on sponsoring departments; extension of member tenure to five years; eligibility of advocates with 10 years' experience; enhanced housing allowances; and prospective application of rules from their notification date. Appointments made before modification remain valid, but future appointments must comply with the modified rules.
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