Prime Minister Narendra Modi criticized the Congress party over a letter written by hundreds of lawyers and some bar associations, expressing concerns about attempts to undermine the integrity of the judiciary using political and professional pressure. Modi called the Congress’ tactics of browbeating and bullying others a vintage Congress culture. He also highlighted that the Congress had itself called for a committed judiciary in the past but does not show any commitment towards the nation. Modi’s comments came after over 600 lawyers, including prominent figures like Harish Salve and Bar Council chairperson Manan Kumar Mishra, wrote to the Chief Justice of India alleging a vested interest group trying to put pressure on the judiciary and defame courts, especially in corruption cases involving politicians. Union Minister Kiren Rijiju also supported the lawyers’ concerns, stating that the Congress and leftists want courts and constitutional authorities to serve them. However, Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge criticized Modi’s comments, stating that it is not proper for the Prime Minister to pass remarks on the judiciary. Jairam Ramesh, another Congress leader, accused Modi of orchestrating an attack on the judiciary. The lawyers’ letter also targeted a section of lawyers who defend politicians by day and try to influence judges through the media at night.