CJI Surya Kant demands proof of mutual respect from foreign courts

The Supreme Court of India has sent a firm message regarding national pride and legal independence. While hearing a plea involving the global pharmaceutical giant Pfizer, the top court stated clearly that it would never sacrifice the country’s sovereignty to satisfy foreign judicial requests.

A bench led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant expressed serious doubts about how other nations treat legal requests from India. The case involves thePfizer Letters Rogatory case, where a United States court asked for help to collect evidence from a Chennai-based firm, Softgel Healthcare. This request is linked to a patent dispute happening in America.

The Madras High Court had previously refused to help Pfizer with this evidence collection. Pfizer then moved the Supreme Court to challenge that decision. During the proceedings, CJI Surya Kant pointed out a perceived imbalance in international legal cooperation. He noted that while foreign entities often expect quick help from India, they sometimes behave as if they are superior when Indian courts ask for information in return.

"We will not compromise with the sovereignty of our nation," the CJI told Pfizer's legal team. He emphasized that Indian courts respect international "comity"—the idea of mutual legal respect—but this must be a two-way street.

Representing Pfizer, Senior Advocate Amit Sibal argued that these requests are based on mutual cooperation. He promised the court that he would provide evidence showing that foreign courts do, in fact, honor requests sent from India.

The Supreme Court has decided to examine the matter further but clarified that issuing a notice does not mean they agree with Pfizer’s stance. The court remains focused on whether Indian judicial requests are truly given the same respect abroad as India gives to others. This case now rests on whether Pfizer can prove that reciprocity is actually practiced, not just promised.

Image Source: Bar and Bench