Allahabad: Justice Shekhar Kumar Yadav of the Allahabad High Court has come under fire for making polarizing remarks at an event organized by the legal cell of the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) in the court premises. Speaking on topics including the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), religious practices, and cultural values, the judge made several contentious statements that have triggered widespread debate.
Justice Yadav declared that India, as a majority Hindu nation, would operate according to the wishes of the majority. He equated this principle with the functioning of a family or society, arguing that the welfare of the majority should take precedence. However, his use of the term “kathmullah,” a derogatory slur against Muslims, has drawn severe criticism.
Referring to certain individuals as “harmful to the country,” he said, “These kathmullahs…though this might not be the right word, I won’t hesitate to use it. They incite the public, act against the nation’s interests, and obstruct its progress. We need to be cautious of such elements.”
Justice Yadav strongly advocated for the enactment of the Uniform Civil Code, describing it as a constitutional necessity. He criticized practices such as polygamy, triple talaq, and halala, which he attributed to the Muslim community, calling them discriminatory and unconstitutional.
“You cannot claim the right to have four wives, perform halala, or practice triple talaq,” he said. “Such practices violate the principles of equality enshrined in the Constitution. Women, who are revered as goddesses in our scriptures, deserve respect and equal rights.”
He further stated that the UCC was not merely a demand by organizations like the VHP or RSS but was backed by the Supreme Court.
Justice Yadav’s speech highlighted the cultural and spiritual values of Hinduism, emphasizing non-violence, compassion, and respect for all living beings. He contrasted this with what he claimed were practices in other communities, which, according to him, could hinder the development of tolerance and compassion.
“In our culture, children are raised with Vedic values, taught to revere even the smallest animals. But in some communities, children grow up witnessing animal slaughter, which influences their mindset,” he remarked.
He also asserted that being Hindu transcends religious practices, stating that anyone who considers India their motherland and is ready to sacrifice for it is essentially Hindu.
Referring to the Supreme Court’s Ayodhya judgment, Justice Yadav celebrated the construction of the Ram Temple as a historic achievement. He urged citizens to prioritize national and cultural pride over individual pursuits.
“Whether you are an advocate, businessman, or student, your identity as a Hindu comes first,” he stated. Quoting Swami Vivekananda, he added, “Only a Hindu can make this country a global leader.”
Justice Yadav’s remarks have sparked a backlash, with critics accusing him of breaching judicial neutrality and promoting divisive rhetoric. Legal experts have raised concerns about the propriety of a sitting judge participating in a politically aligned event and making controversial statements about religious and social issues.
