Yadav, who has been a member of the Allahabad High Court since 2019, has a history of contentious observations. Known for his outspoken views on various issues, including religious matters, his remarks at the VHP event, where he aligned himself with the organization's views on Hinduism and national culture, have garnered significant attention. His participation in such events has raised questions about the impartiality of his judicial conduct, particularly given the sensitive nature of his role in the judiciary.
The issue came to light when footage of his speech at the VHP event circulated online, triggering debates on whether his actions breached judicial neutrality. Observers have pointed out that a judge's involvement in politically or religiously charged events could undermine public trust in the fairness of legal proceedings. Furthermore, Yadav's remarks seemed to advocate for Hindu-centric policies, raising concerns about his ability to preside over cases involving religious minorities without bias.
Justice Yadav is no stranger to controversy. Over the years, he has made several remarks that have caught the public's attention. In 2021, for instance, he controversially suggested that cows are the only animals that exhale oxygen, and he advocated for declaring the cow a national animal. Additionally, he has made remarks regarding the protection of Hindu culture, linking it to India’s national identity, which have drawn both praise and criticism.
His views on issues such as interfaith marriage and the protection of Hindu religious practices have further polarized public opinion. While some see his stance as a reflection of India's cultural values, others argue that such views are incongruent with the secular nature of the Indian Constitution. His position in the judiciary, particularly in a high-profile court like the Allahabad High Court, makes his actions even more significant, as they influence not only legal precedents but also public perceptions of judicial independence.
The Supreme Court’s decision to review the matter follows concerns raised by legal experts and social commentators, who have questioned whether Yadav’s remarks could be seen as a violation of judicial ethics. The Indian judiciary, known for its constitutional integrity, has been under increasing scrutiny for its members’ conduct, particularly in cases involving religious or political ideologies. The expectation is that judges, as upholders of the Constitution, maintain neutrality and refrain from publicly aligning with specific religious or political groups.