Thirteen senior advocates urge CJI to direct CBI probe against Justice Shekhar Yadav
New Delhi: Thirteen senior advocates of the Supreme Court have written to Chief Justice of India (CJI) Sanjiv Khanna, urging him to take suo motu cognizance of a speech delivered by Justice Shekhar Kumar Yadav of the Allahabad High Court. The letter demands the CBI lodge an FIR against Justice Yadav, citing his remarks as hate speech that violates constitutional values and judicial impartiality.
The advocates highlighted Justice Yadav’s speech at an event organised by the Vishva Hindu Parishad's legal cell on December 8, 2024, within the Allahabad High Court library premises. They alleged that his comments, including divisive rhetoric and derogatory remarks towards Muslims, contradict the oath of office taken by a judge.
The letter noted Justice Yadav’s statements referring to “hamari Gita” (our Gita) and “aapki Koran” (your Koran), alongside other remarks that allegedly painted one religious community in a negative light. He reportedly criticised Muslim practices such as polygamy and triple talaq, characterising the community as lacking generosity and tolerance.
The advocates emphasised that the speech promoted majoritarian views, undermined the constitutional principles of secularism, and posed a threat to India’s unity and integrity. Justice Yadav also invoked divisive imagery, referencing the Ram Mandir issue and unfounded fears of India becoming “Bangladesh” or “Taliban.”
The letter further pointed out that Justice Yadav’s appointment to the Allahabad High Court was opposed by former CJI Dr D.Y. Chandrachud, citing inadequate work experience and his association with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and a BJP leader.
Referring to the Supreme Court’s ruling in K. Veeraswami v. Union of India (1991), the advocates argued that a criminal case against a sitting judge requires consultation with the CJI. They called for immediate action, stating Justice Yadav’s remarks violated Articles 14, 21, 25, and 26 of the Constitution.
The letter also highlighted the Supreme Court’s Amish Devgan v. Union of India (2021) judgment, describing Justice Yadav’s speech as hate speech promoting enmity between religious groups. It urged the judiciary to uphold its impartiality and ensure accountability for actions undermining public confidence in the justice system.
Justice Yadav reportedly stands by his comments, as per media reports. The advocates concluded by requesting the CJI to ensure that appropriate legal and constitutional measures are taken against the judge.
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Virat Kohli, KL Rahul likely to miss upcoming Ranji Trophy matches
Bengaluru: Star batters Virat Kohli and KL Rahul are expected to miss the upcoming round of the Ranji Trophy, as both have reportedly informed the BCCI's medical team about carrying injuries. As a result, neither will be able to represent their respective state teams in the next round of the tournament, set to begin on January 23.
According to ESPNCricinfo, Kohli had neck pain and had taken an injection on January 8, three days after the Border-Gavaskar Trophy ended in Sydney. Kohli told the BCCI medical staff that he was still experiencing pain, ruling him out of Delhi's game against Saurashtra in Rajkot.
KL Rahul is still recovering from an elbow niggle and will likely miss Karnataka’s Ranji Trophy match against Punjab. He has conveyed to the BCCI medical staff his concern about the issue, and they are monitoring him currently, PTI reported.
However, both the batters have a chance to play in the season's last final round, starting on January 30.
Meanwhile, the BCCI recently unveiled a stringent set of 10-point disciplinary guidelines. They have made it compulsory for each centrally-contracted player to represent their state teams in domestic cricket to remain eligible for selection in the national team and for central contracts.
The board also stated that if any player is unavailable, he needs permission from the national chairman of selectors, Ajit Agarkar and head coach Gautam Gambhir.
