The government proposes to replace the 20-year-old collegium system for appointment of judges, law minister Kapil Sibal has said. A legislation is in the offing to set up a judicial appointments commission in its place.

The collegium system has been target of much criticism, particularly for lack of transparency. There may not be nothing wrong in reviewing it, but if the government takes that initiative, it will invite charge of a turf war – especialy when the UPA has been cornered in the supreme court every other day of late.

Of course, the government says it intends to consult the judiciary. But, the judiciary has defended the system. Chief justice of India Altmas Kabit sopke in its favour recently and the apex court rejected a petition seekign a review in January.