The Supreme Court Collegium has summoned Justice Shekhar Kumar Yadav of the Allahabad High Court for a meeting next week following his controversial remarks targeting the Muslim community. Justice Yadav, while addressing an event organized by the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) on December 8, used the derogatory term “kathmullah” and suggested that India should function based on the wishes of the majority population.
The remarks, delivered during a lecture on the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), have sparked significant outrage, prompting calls for his impeachment and withdrawal of judicial duties. The Campaign for Judicial Accountability and Reforms (CJAR) has filed a formal complaint with Chief Justice of India (CJI) D.Y. Chandrachud, urging an in-house inquiry against the judge.
Supreme Court Reacts to Controversy
On December 10, sources revealed that the Supreme Court, in its administrative capacity, sought details from the Allahabad High Court regarding Justice Yadav’s statements. The Collegium’s decision to summon him underscores the gravity of the issue.
In a significant development, the Allahabad High Court, on December 12, reassigned Justice Yadav’s roster. Effective December 16, he will handle only first appeals from district courts filed before 2010, significantly limiting his judicial responsibilities.
Impeachment Motion Gains Momentum
Adding to the growing backlash, a group of 55 Members of Parliament, led by senior advocate and Rajya Sabha MP Kapil Sibal, submitted an impeachment motion against Justice Yadav to the Secretary-General of the Rajya Sabha. The motion is likely to be considered during the ongoing Winter Session of Parliament.
Broader Implications
Justice Yadav’s comments have raised concerns over judicial impartiality. Critics argue that such remarks undermine public confidence in the judiciary. Legal experts and lawmakers alike have emphasized the importance of maintaining the judiciary’s integrity and ensuring accountability for any conduct that breaches its ethical standards.
