On May 19, 2024, the Chief Justice of India, Surya Kant, confirmed that he had received a letter from leaders of the INDIA bloc requesting a meeting. He said he had replied to the correspondence, though he did not disclose any details of what the letter contained. The letter requested a meeting with the Chief Justice.
In his response, Justice Surya Kant explained that he was unable to accommodate a meeting because of prior engagements that already filled his schedule. He stressed that the contents of the letter would remain confidential. By keeping the letter private, he sought to uphold the propriety of judicial communications while still acknowledging receipt.
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Beyond addressing the scheduling issue, the Chief Justice used the moment to reiterate a core principle of the Indian judiciary. He stated that the Supreme Court is open to everyone, from common citizens to members of elected bodies, and that anyone may approach the court with grievances. He added that the court listens to those concerns according to the law and ensures that those who are entitled to relief receive their rights. To illustrate this point, he offered two remarks: “The Supreme Court is open to everyone. From common citizens to members of elected bodies, anyone can approach the court,” and “Every citizen of India has the right to approach us. We listen to their grievances according to the law. We ensure that those eligible for relief get their rights.” These comments underscored his view that the judiciary remains an accessible avenue for redress, regardless of the petitioner’s status.
He stated that the Supreme Court is open to everyone, from common citizens to members of elected bodies, and that anyone may approach the court with grievances.