Patna: The Bihar Judicial Services Association (BJSA) has lodged a formal protest with the Governor and Chief Minister of Bihar against “highly objectionable and deeply disturbing” remarks made by Cabinet Minister Shri Vijay Kumar Sinha. In a strongly worded letter dated December 23, 2025, the Association has condemned the Minister’s recent statements questioning the integrity of a judicial officer based solely on the expeditious disposal of a case.
The controversy has erupted following a viral video clip where Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha—who holds the portfolios for Revenue & Land Reforms, Mines & Geology, and Urban Development & Housing—is allegedly seen questioning the impartiality of a judge.
The Allegations: “Interest” in Speedy Justice?
According to the representation signed by Ajit Kumar Singh, Secretary of the BJSA and District & Additional Sessions Judge, Gaya, the Minister is heard in the video questioning the integrity of a judicial officer. The letter states that the Minister suggested that a “concerned Judge who decided a matter expeditiously might be acting with an ‘interest’ and that such conduct ought to be reported to the Hon’ble Chief Justice.”
The Association has termed these remarks as “wholly irresponsible and unacceptable,” particularly as they emanate from a person holding a high constitutional office. The letter highlights that the Minister made these allegations casually, without any material on record or factual foundation.
“Timely Disposal is Encouraged, Not Suspect”
The BJSA strongly rebutted the Minister’s inference that judicial efficiency implies malafide intent. The letter asserts:
“It is a well-settled principle that the efficiency with which a judicial officer disposes of cases cannot, by itself, be a ground to impute improper motives or allege bias. On the contrary, timely disposal of cases is an essential component of effective justice and is consistently encouraged by constitutional Courts to address pendency and ensure access to justice.”
The Association argued that suggesting expeditious adjudication is indicative of “interest” reflects a “fundamental misunderstanding of judicial functioning” and unfairly maligns judges who are diligently performing their duties.
Attack on Judicial Independence
The representation to the Governor highlights that the independence of the judiciary is a cornerstone of India’s constitutional democracy. The BJSA asserted that such “sweeping public statements” risk intimidating judicial officers and eroding public confidence in the justice delivery system.
The letter further raises significant constitutional points regarding the separation of powers and the dignity of the judiciary:
- Exclusive Jurisdiction of High Court: The Association emphasized that the High Court exercises exclusive constitutional supervision and administrative control over judicial officers. Any grievance regarding a judge’s conduct must be addressed through this established judicial framework alone, and “any other organ of State has no jurisdiction in this regard.”
- Article 261 Violation: The remarks are said to offend the mandate of Article 261 of the Constitution of India, which requires that full faith and credit be given throughout the territory of India to judicial proceedings and acts of Courts.
- Violation of Oath: The Association alleged that the Minister’s conduct violates his Oath of Office under the Third Schedule, which binds him to bear true faith and allegiance to the Constitution and to uphold the dignity, independence, and authority of the judicial institution.
Demand for Apology
Terming the Minister’s actions as “unreasonable” and “totally uncalled for,” the Bihar Judicial Services Association has demanded that Shri Vijay Kumar Sinha reflect on the consequences of his statement and tender an apology.
“Upholding mutual respect among constitutional institutions is essential for preserving democratic governance and the rule of law,” the letter concluded. The Association also enclosed the video clip in question as evidence.
