Allahabad HC Judge Yadav Defends Comments, Rejects Hate Speech Allegations

Allahabad HC Judge Shekhar Kumar Yadav Defends Controversial Remarks, Denies Hate Speech

Allahabad High Court Justice Shekhar Kumar Yadav, in a letter to Chief Justice Arun Bhansali, defended his controversial remarks made on December 8, 2024, during a Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) event in Prayagraj. His response follows a month after the Supreme Court Collegium directed an inquiry into his statements, which were criticized for targeting the Muslim community at the event.

The Supreme Court had called for a thorough investigation into the divisive comments made by Justice Yadav and instructed the Allahabad High Court to submit a comprehensive report on the matter.

Justice Yadav’s Defense
In his written reply, Justice Yadav rejected the allegations of hate speech and reiterated that his remarks were in line with constitutional values and societal concerns. He claimed that his words had been misinterpreted by those with “biases” and expressed that he would not apologize. He also emphasized that members of the judiciary have limited avenues to defend themselves in such situations.

His letter addressed several points, including a previous order related to cow protection, which had raised questions from some activists. Justice Yadav justified his stance on cow protection, stating it was an integral part of Indian ethics and legal systems. He argued that his intent was not to incite hate but to highlight societal issues.

Controversial Speech
During the VHP event on December 8, Justice Yadav made controversial comments about the Muslim community, stating that the law should cater to the “welfare of the majority community.” He remarked, “I have no hesitation in stating that Hindustan will function as per the wishes of the majority living here. This is the law. It is not about speaking like a High Court Judge; instead, the law works according to the bahusankyak (majority).”

He justified his remarks by asserting that it is necessary to call out those who are a “danger to the progress of the nation.”

One of his most contentious statements involved using a derogatory term to describe Muslims: “Lakin Yai jo Khatmullah hai jo…ye sahi shabd nahi hai…lakin kehen mai parhez nahi hai kyunki wo desh ke liye bura hai.. desh ke liye gahtak hai, khilaaf hai, jan ko bhadkane wale log hai…. desh aage na badhe is parkar ke log hai…unse shavdhan rehen ki zaroorat hai.” (But these kathmullahs (a derogatory term for Muslims) … this may not be the right word, but I won’t hesitate to say it because they are bad for the country… they are against the nation… they are the ones who stir conflict. They do not wish for the nation’s progress and we must be cautious of such people.)

This inflammatory language, which included the use of the term “Kathmullah,” a derogatory slur often used by Hindutva extremists against Muslims, sparked significant controversy.