With reference to the Independence and Impartiality of the Supreme Court, explain the role of each of the following factors:

(i) No discussion with respect to the conduct of any Judge: This principle ensures that the independence and impartiality of the Supreme Court is not compromised by any discussion with respect to the conduct and decisions of individual judges. Public discussion that questions the judgments of or criticizes the Supreme Court and its judges can weaken public faith in the judiciary, and undermine support for and confidence in the legal system. This principle also prevents judges from being influenced or intimidated by public discourse.

(ii) Power to punish for contempt of itself: The Supreme Court has the power to punish anyone who attempts to interfere with the administration of justice by way of disrespect or contempt towards the Court. The Supreme Court is empowered to impose a range of sanctions for contemptuous behaviour, such as causing obstruction to the course of justice or violating the solemnity of proceedings in the Court. The contempt of court law is seen as necessary to ensure the independence and impartiality of the Supreme Court and other courts, as it can discourage anyone from interfering with judicial proceedings.