India, Aug. 25 -- A controversial new legal opinion issued by the US Justice Department's Office of Legal Counsel has substantially broadened the scope of executive privilege, asserting that private advisers consulting a president can shield themselves from official subpoenas.

Legal scholars and constitutional experts have expressed profound concern, arguing that the expansive interpretation creates an alarming loophole that undermines congressional oversight and judicial review. By enabling non-governmental consultants to claim immunity from testimony and document requests, the directive risks insulating executive branches from public scrutiny and accountability.

The ramifications of this policy shift extend far beyond standard adminis...