“Constitutional morality is the fulcrum which acts as an essential check upon the high functionaries and citizens alike…” In view of the above observation of the Supreme Court, explain the concept of constitutional morality and its application to ensure balance between judicial independence and judicial accountability in India. (Answer in 250 words)

Constitutional morality means fidelity to the Constitution’s text, values and institutional discipline beyond mechanical legality.

Meaning

• It advances liberty, equality, dignity, fraternity and rule of law against arbitrary or majoritarian power.
• It requires judges and citizens to act with integrity, restraint and respect for institutional boundaries.

Balance

• Tenure protection, judicial review and appointment safeguards protect independence.
• Reasoned judgments, disclosure, ethical codes, in-house procedures, RTI principles and impeachment for proved misconduct support accountability.
• Independence means freedom from improper control, not immunity from scrutiny; transparent criteria and institutional self-restraint preserve public confidence.

Keywords: polity, judiciary, constitutional morality, judicial accountability