"Constitutional morality is the fulcrum which acts as an essential check upon the high functionaries and citizens alike..." In view of the above observation of the Supreme Court, explain the concept of constitutional morality and its application to ensure balance between judicial independence and judicial accountability in India.

Gives the independence versus accountability tension in judicial appointments and reforms that could balance the two.

• On independence: the NJAC was struck down in 2015 because it gave the executive and non-judicial members a potential veto over appointments.
• On accountability: the Collegium publishes no criteria, reasons or records, and even judges often do not know when it meets, according to Justice Datta.
• Suggested balance: finalise the Memorandum of Procedure with timelines for both sides, publish selection criteria and set up a permanent secretariat to assess candidates.