Justice Shekhar Kumar Yadav Defends Controversial Speech at Retirement Event
In a full court reference held on the occasion of his retirement on Wednesday, Justice Shekhar Kumar Yadav addressed the controversy surrounding his alleged communal remarks, which had prompted an impeachment motion against him in the Rajya Sabha. He asserted that his speech was twisted and that the fault lay with those who distorted his words, not with him.
Impeachment Motion Becomes Void with Retirement
With his retirement on Wednesday, the impeachment motion against Justice Yadav also became void, marking the end of a contentious period in his judicial career. The motion was initiated following his speech at an event organized by the legal cell of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad in Prayagraj in December 2024.
Clarification on Speech and Defense of Impartiality
Addressing the gathering in the courtroom of the chief justice, Justice Yadav clarified that his words at the VHP event were misrepresented. He defended his impartiality on the bench, stating, "No person can say that I discriminated while delivering justice. I never differentiated between small or big lawyers, or lawyers of any caste."
He emphasized the importance of mutual respect in the legal profession, adding, "A judge is not a police inspector (daroga). Everyone should learn to be humble, regardless of whether they are a senior, a judge or a junior."
Thanks to the Bar for Support During Controversy
In his farewell speech, Justice Yadav expressed gratitude to the members of the Bar for their support during the difficult period. He said, "Another phase came, in which I had no fault, and during that, I got your support. Had I not received it, I would have broken."
Background of the Controversial Speech
The controversy stemmed from a speech delivered by Justice Yadav on the Constitutional Necessity of Uniform Civil Code at the VHP event. In his address, he asserted that India would function according to the will of the majority population. The speech drew sharp criticism for:
- Use of a slur against Muslims
- Remarks contrasting Hindu traditions with Muslim practices, including references to polygamy, triple talaq, and animal slaughter
These remarks triggered strong reactions from various quarters, including:
- Members of the Bar
- Civil society groups
- Political leaders
Within days of the speech, efforts began in Parliament to initiate impeachment proceedings against him, highlighting the intense scrutiny and debate surrounding his comments.
Justice Yadav's retirement marks a significant moment in this ongoing discourse, as he leaves the bench with a firm defense of his actions and a call for humility and respect in the legal community.
