How do international appeals for fair trials affect India's judicial sovereignty?

International appeals for fair trials, especially from foreign governments or organizations, often arise in high-profile legal cases in India. These appeals are usually based on concerns regarding human rights and adherence to international legal standards. However, they can have implications for India's judicial sovereignty and the perception of its independent judiciary.

• Judicial Sovereignty: India’s Constitution guarantees an independent judiciary, and the country’s legal system is primarily governed by domestic laws. External appeals may be viewed as interference in India’s internal affairs, potentially challenging the autonomy of its courts.
• Diplomatic Pressure: When international actors urge for specific actions (such as granting bail or ensuring a fair trial), it can create diplomatic pressure. While Indian courts are not legally bound by such appeals, they may come under public or political scrutiny, raising concerns about impartiality.
• Perception of the Judiciary: Repeated external appeals can affect the public perception of the judiciary's independence. If courts are seen as responding to international pressure, it may undermine confidence in their ability to deliver justice solely on the basis of law and evidence.
• International Commitments: India is a signatory to several international human rights conventions, such as the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR). While these commitments encourage fair trial standards, their enforcement is through domestic mechanisms, not external directives.
• Balancing Act: Indian authorities often reiterate that legal processes will be followed according to Indian law. While acknowledging international concerns, they emphasize that judicial decisions are made independently and without external influence.