India, Sept. 17 -- Entrusted power demands accountability; self-assumed power demands even greater accountability. The largest democracy in the world, India, rests on foundation of freedom: freedom not just from colonial rule, but the freedom to live with equality, security, and dignity.

This transition from political independence to real constitutional liberty, at all relevant times, is facilitated by the judiciary. These freedoms are not self-sustaining; they demand vigilant guardianship. In this constitutional architecture, the judiciary stands as the sole and ultimate protector of these liberties. A judiciary that is bold, fearless, and uncompromisingly independent is the bedrock of real freedom. But such a judiciary cannot be expect...