GG News Bureau
Lucknow, 10th Dec. Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) international president Alok Kumar on Tuesday dismissed opposition criticism of Allahabad High Court judge Shekhar Yadav for attending and speaking at a VHP event in Prayagraj. Justice Yadav had addressed the event, discussing the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) and other issues, which sparked controversy after his comments were widely circulated.
Kumar clarified that Justice Yadav was invited as a speaker for the VHP Legal Cell’s provincial convention to provide insights on the UCC, a Constitutional mandate under the Directive Principles of State Policy. Kumar stated that the judge referred to Supreme Court judgments advocating for the implementation of the UCC to promote societal integration and national unity.
Videos from the event reportedly showed Justice Yadav saying laws should align with the majority’s views, drawing strong opposition reactions. While Kumar said he was not present at the event, he defended the judge’s broader stance, emphasizing the importance of mutual respect and tolerance between communities.
“If a majority holds a particular view, others should respect it,” Kumar said, adding that such discussions were part of the VHP’s efforts to raise awareness among advocates and society on issues like the UCC, temple liberation, and legal reforms.
Amid the controversy, lawyer-activist Prashant Bhushan wrote to Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna, demanding an in-house inquiry into Justice Yadav’s remarks, alleging they targeted the Muslim community.
Justice Yadav has faced criticism in the past for remarks on cow protection, urging its recognition as a national symbol and calling for it to be a fundamental right for Hindus.
Kumar indicated that while former judges would continue to be invited for VHP events, the controversy might lead to a more cautious approach regarding sitting judges.
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