The Unbreakable Chains: Justice Sudarshan Reddy on Why No Constitutional Authority Wields Unaccountable Power

In a powerful and unequivocal declaration that resonates at the very heart of democratic governance, Justice Sudarshan Reddy has asserted a foundational truth: no constitutional authority, regardless of its eminence or domain, can ever possess unaccountable power. This statement serves as a potent reminder of the meticulously crafted framework of checks and balances that underpins India's constitutional democracy, designed specifically to prevent the concentration and misuse of authority.

Justice Reddy's pronouncement underscores a principle that is not merely theoretical but is vital for the survival and flourishing of any democratic state.

Constitutionalism, by its very definition, is about limited government – power is granted by the people, through the Constitution, and is therefore inherently constrained. It is a social contract where authority is entrusted, not absolutely bestowed, and must always operate within defined parameters and be subject to scrutiny.

This principle applies across the entire spectrum of governance – to the executive, the legislature, and indeed, to the judiciary itself.

The idea that any branch, or any individual holding constitutional office within that branch, could be above questioning or exempt from the rule of law is anathema to the spirit of the Constitution. It is precisely this vigilance against unchecked power that safeguards individual liberties, protects fundamental rights, and ensures the equitable application of justice.

The mechanisms for accountability are manifold: parliamentary oversight, judicial review, the press as the fourth pillar of democracy, and ultimately, the informed citizenry.

These are not ornamental features but essential cogs in the democratic machinery that ensure transparency and responsiveness. When any authority attempts to circumvent these checks, it invariably erodes public trust and threatens the very fabric of democratic institutions.

Justice Reddy's timely reminder serves as a call to perpetual vigilance.

It implores us to remember that the strength of our democracy lies not just in the letter of the law, but in the unwavering commitment to its spirit – a spirit that unequivocally rejects the notion of absolute power. Upholding this principle is a collective responsibility, ensuring that accountability remains the bedrock upon which all constitutional authority rests, thereby securing a just and equitable society for all.