Overview
- Chief Justice B R Gavai questioned the timing of the Union government's application seeking a five-judge Constitution Bench after petitioners had concluded arguments.
- The Court said it would not refer the case solely on the government's last‑minute request but retained its own power to do so if warranted.
- Attorney General R Venkataramani denied any attempt to avoid the present bench and urged that the Tribunals Reforms Act, 2021 be allowed to operate before being judged.
- Petitioners, including the Madras Bar Association, argue the Act revives provisions on tenure, age and appointments that the Supreme Court struck down in 2021 for undermining judicial independence.
- The bench heard the AG's submissions and adjourned the hearing to November 7 after starting final arguments on October 16.