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Synopsis

In a controversial address at an event organized by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) on Sunday, Justice Shekhar Kumar Yadav of the Allahabad High Court advocated for the implementation of a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) and criticized practices such as polygamy, triple talaq, and Halala. Speaking to an audience of advocates and VHP volunteers, he emphasized the need to respect India's cultural ethos while discarding regressive traditions.

Justice Yadav clarified that Hindus did not expect Muslims to adopt their cultural practices but emphasized the importance of mutual respect. He noted that Hindus did not demand others to follow rituals like taking seven rounds around a fire during marriage or taking a dip in the Ganga but expected them to refrain from disrespecting the country's culture, deities, and prominent leaders. He further remarked that India would function according to the wishes of its majority.

A video of Justice Yadav's speech, shared widely on social media, has drawn both support and criticism.

Justice Yadav strongly criticized practices such as triple talaq and Halala, asserting they were outdated and incompatible with contemporary societal norms. Referring to the Shah Bano case, he highlighted how the Supreme Court had upheld maintenance rights for divorced Muslim women but faced legislative opposition. The then Union government bowed down to pressure and introduced a law against the Supreme Court’s decision, he said.

He juxtaposed this with Hindu society’s reforms, such as the abolition of Sati and child marriage, calling on all communities to acknowledge and rectify societal flaws. Every religion must shun bad practices on its own. If not, the country will enforce a common law for all its citizens, he warned.

Justice Yadav also touched upon cultural values, questioning practices like animal slaughter. "We teach our children tolerance and kindness from birth. How will your children learn compassion when they see animals slaughtered in front of them?" he asked. He asserted that respecting one’s own religion does not equate to harboring ill will toward others.

Speaking on women’s rights, he highlighted the importance of treating women with dignity, noting their revered status in Hindu scriptures. You can’t disrespect women, claim the right to four wives, or deny them maintenance, he said.

Justice Yadav lauded the Rashtriya Swayamsewak Sangh (RSS) and VHP for their efforts on "issues vital to the nation," including the construction of the Ram temple in Ayodhya. He also pointed out that the RSS, nearing its centenary in 2025, has consistently supported UCC alongside the Supreme Court.

The event, which was inaugurated by Justice Dinesh Pathak, also saw discussions on Hindu cultural preservation and the significance of common laws in a diverse society.