Judicial independence refers to the principle that the judiciary should remain separate from other branches of government, such as the executive and legislative branches. This separation ensures that judges can make decisions based solely on the law and facts, without external pressures or influences. It is essential for maintaining fairness and impartiality in the legal system. A key aspect of judicial independence is the protection of judges from political interference or personal consequences for their rulings. This allows them to uphold the rule of law and protect individual rights, contributing to public trust in institutions like the Supreme Court and the overall justice system.