CBCI Seeks Action Against Allahabad High Court Judge

New Delhi, December 11, 2024: The Catholic Bishops' Conference of India (CBCI) has called on Members of Parliament (MPs) to take immediate action against an Allahabad High Court judge who recently made controversial remarks in favour of majoritarian rule. 

In a program held within court premises, the judge reportedly stated that the country should operate according to the "wishes of the majority," a stance contradicting the principles of equality enshrined in the Indian Constitution. The CBCI emphasized that such views directly undermine Article 14, which guarantees equality before the law for all citizens.

The CBCI’s statement comes after several judicial incidents that raised concerns over judicial bias and violations of constitutional principles. Earlier, the Supreme Court had expunged prejudiced comments made by the same High Court regarding Christians, following a case related to religious freedom. Additionally, the Supreme Court had criticized a previous judgment in the Manipur violence case, which was later corrected by the Manipur High Court.

The CBCI argues that law in India is not based on majority rule but on constitutional morality, which upholds justice and fairness for all citizens. The bishops also pointed out that such remarks were made in a function organized by a group accused of fomenting communal violence in the past. 

Despite these repeated violations, the CBCI lamented that no effective action has been taken against those responsible. They reminded MPs that, according to Articles 124 and 217 of the Constitution, Parliament has the authority to initiate action against erring judges, a responsibility that should transcend political affiliations. 

The CBCI urges MPs to take a firm stance to ensure accountability, criticizing the inefficacy of past actions taken by the Supreme Court’s internal committees in similar cases. The CBCI concluded by echoing the words of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, warning that failing to defend the Constitution and uphold equality would jeopardize the country’s democracy.

By Catholic Connect Reporter