Justice Yadav Retires After 2024 Speech Row: Says “I Was Not at Fault”, Remarks Were “Distorted”

Allahabad High Court Justice Shekhar Kumar Yadav addressed the controversy surrounding his 2024 speech during his farewell at a full court reference, as he demitted office upon retirement. The remarks had earlier triggered nationwide criticism and calls for his removal.

During his address, Justice Yadav firmly denied any wrongdoing and maintained that his statements had been misrepresented. He said, “The fault lay entirely with those who presented the facts in a twisted and distorted manner.” He added that he had faced serious consequences despite not committing any mistake.

Reflecting on the period following the controversy, he spoke about the personal and professional challenges he endured. “I was not at fault. I had not done anything like that. Still, I received punishment,” he stated, while also acknowledging the support extended to him by members of the Bar during that time.

Justice Yadav further emphasised that he had always treated advocates equally, irrespective of their background. He stated that no lawyer could accuse him of discrimination based on caste or religion, and that court proceedings under him were conducted without bias or distinction.

He also spoke about his views on Indian culture and its relationship with the Constitution. According to him, cultural values play a significant role in shaping the legal framework of the country. “The culture of this land is supreme to me; the Constitution has its own place. However, even the Constitution is guided by our culture,” he remarked.

Justice Yadav had come under intense scrutiny in December 2024 after delivering a speech at an event organised by the legal cell of the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP). The speech included remarks on the Uniform Civil Code and statements suggesting that governance should reflect the will of the majority population.

The controversy escalated due to his use of the term “kathmullah,” widely considered derogatory towards Muslims, along with comments contrasting religious practices. His statements drew strong reactions from legal professionals, civil society, and political leaders.

Following the incident, impeachment proceedings were proposed in Parliament. Senior Advocate and Rajya Sabha MP Kapil Sibal had indicated that a removal motion would be initiated, reportedly backed by over 50 Members of Parliament.

The Supreme Court Collegium also took note of the matter and initiated an in-house inquiry after Justice Yadav declined to issue a public apology. Additionally, several senior advocates had urged for a criminal investigation into the remarks.

Despite the gravity of the allegations and the proceedings initiated, no formal action was taken against Justice Yadav before his retirement. He concluded his judicial tenure while reiterating that he bore no fault in the controversy.