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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Parliament passes Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025
New Delhi (PTI): Parliament early Friday passed the contentious Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, after it was approved by the Rajya Sabha.
The Lok Sabha had on Thursday approved the Bill after over a 12-hour debate.
In Rajya Sabha, the Bill got 128 votes in its favour and 95 against after all the amendments moved by the opposition were rejected.
In the lower house, the bill was supported by 288 MPs while 232 voted against it.
Participating in a debate in the Rajya Sabha, Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju said the Bill was brought with a number of amendments based on suggestions given by various stakeholders.
"The Waqf Board is a statutory body. All government bodies should be secular," the minister said, explaining the inclusion of non-Muslims on the board.
He, however, said the number of non-Muslims has been restricted to only four out of 22.
Rijiju also alleged that the Congress and other opposition parties, and not the BJP, were trying to scare Muslims with the Waqf Bill.
"You (opposition) are pushing Muslims out of the mainstream," he added.
He said for 60 years, the Congress and others ruled the country, but did not do much for Muslims and the community continues to live in poverty.
"Muslims are poor, who is responsible? You (Congress) are. Modi is now leading the government to uplift them," the minister said.
According to the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, Waqf tribunals will be strengthened, a structured selection process will be maintained, and a tenure will be fixed to ensure efficient dispute resolution.
As per the Bill, while Waqf institutions' mandatory contribution to Waqf boards is reduced from 7 per cent to 5 per cent, Waqf institutions earning over Rs 1 lakh will undergo audits by state-sponsored auditors.
A centralised portal will automate Waqf property management, improving efficiency and transparency.
The Bill proposes that practising Muslims (for at least five years) can dedicate their property to the Waqf, restoring pre-2013 rules.
It stipulates that women must receive their inheritance before the Waqf declaration, with special provisions for widows, divorced women and orphans.
The Bill proposes that an officer above the rank of collector investigate government properties claimed as Waqf.
It also proposes that non-Muslim members be included in the central and state Waqf boards for inclusivity.
