Chief Justice of India Surya Kant on Friday recused himself from hearing a batch of petitions challenging the law governing the appointment and service conditions of the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and Election Commissioners.

A Bench comprising CJI Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul M. Pancholi was scheduled to hear the matter when the CJI expressed reservations about presiding over the case. Observing that his participation could invite allegations of conflict of interest, he stated that the matter should be heard by a Bench where the judge is not in line to become the Chief Justice of India.

The challenge on the validity of the law excluding the CJI from the selection panel for appointing election commissioners. During the hearing, Advocate Prashant Bhushan, appearing for one of the petitioners, suggested that the matter be placed before a Bench without a prospective CJI.

Accepting the suggestion, CJI Kant remarked that he had similar concerns and had already considered reassigning the case to avoid any controversy. He directed that the matter be listed before an appropriate Bench.

The Court accordingly ordered that the case be listed on April 7 before a separately earmarked Bench.