Only a strong institutional response will serve the cause of justice following the communally charged remarks by a judge of the Allahabad High Court. Demands have been put forth for an inquiry against Justice Shekhar Kumar Yadav, suspension of his judicial work and even impeachment. The Supreme Court has sought details of the controversial speech amid protests that this brazen violation of the code of conduct casts doubts on the judiciary’s independence and neutrality. Addressing an event organized by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad on the Uniform Civil Code, Justice Yadav said the country would function as per the wishes of the majority. Replete with communal slurs, his speech also alluded to the media attention it would generate. A line has been crossed, and what’s worse, all too knowingly.
Impartiality is the cornerstone of the Constitution and the rule of law. An individual who has taken oath to uphold these principles making an exhibition of his prejudices does a huge disservice to both his constitutional role and the judicial system. The impact is not confined to communal unrest; it erodes public faith in the judiciary’s integrity. A denial or a rebuttable will not suffice. There must be consequences. The top court, the expectation is, will send a firm message on what is not acceptable.
A Supreme Court Bench’s observations after its suo motu cognizance of objectionable remarks by a Karnataka High Court judge need reiteration. The perception of justice to every segment of society, it said, was as important as the rendition of justice. It was intrinsic for judges to be aware of their own predispositions, it noted, because it was only on the basis of such awareness that they could remain truly faithful to deliver objective and fair justice. Hear, hear, Justice Yadav.
(Tribune, India)