Why Are Retired HC Judges Upset Over B. Sudershan Reddy's Meeting with Lalu Yadav?
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Synopsis
In a bold statement, eight retired High Court judges have expressed their serious concerns regarding a controversial meeting between Justice B. Sudarshan Reddy and convicted politician Lalu Prasad Yadav. This meeting raises significant questions about judgment and propriety in the highest echelons of Indian politics.
Key Takeaways
- Retired judges raised alarm over the meeting's legitimacy.
- Concerns about integrity in public office were highlighted.
- Justice Reddy's judgment in associating with a convict is questioned.
- Public trust in constitutional institutions is at stake.
- Senior advocates echoed the judges' concerns.
New Delhi, Sep 8 (NationPress) A consortium of eight retired High Court judges has publicly voiced their dismay regarding a recent meeting between Opposition Vice Presidential candidate Justice B. Sudarshan Reddy and RJD leader Lalu Prasad Yadav, who has been convicted in the fodder scam involving the misappropriation of approximately Rs 940 crore of public funds.
In a statement released on September 8, the retired judges raised concerns about the legitimacy of this meeting, asserting that it cannot be rationalized through electoral motives, as Lalu Yadav is not a Member of Parliament and lacks eligibility to participate in the Vice-Presidential electoral college.
“For an individual of Mr. Reddy's caliber, a former judge of the Supreme Court of India, his aspiration to hold one of the nation's highest constitutional roles makes such a questionable engagement alarming, raising significant doubts about his judgment and propriety,” the statement indicated.
Moreover, the judges remarked, “Mr. Reddy's choice to connect with individuals convicted of crimes that have adversely affected national interests through corruption reveals much about his intentions and alliances.”
Among the signatories were Justice S.M. Khandeparkar, Justice Ambadas Joshi (both ex-judges of the Bombay High Court), Justice R.K. Marthiya (former judge of the Jharkhand High Court), retired Justice Devender Kumar Ahuja (Allahabad High Court), Justice S.N. Dhingra (former judge of the Delhi High Court), retired Justice Karam Chand Puri (Punjab & Haryana High Court), Justice P.N. Ravindran (Kerala High Court), and Justice R.S. Rathore (former judge of the Rajasthan High Court).
“It is particularly concerning that despite his notable judicial background, Mr. Reddy has voluntarily engaged with a person whose criminal conduct has been validated by Indian courts,” the statement further noted.
“This misstep by an individual aiming for a significant and esteemed constitutional position signifies a fundamental misjudgment, one that the public must thoroughly assess,” the retired judges warned.
Earlier in the day, around 20 senior advocates from the Supreme Court and High Court voiced their concerns over the questionable meeting between the Opposition Vice Presidential candidate and the RJD chief.
The senior advocates stressed that Justice Reddy’s association with a convict demonstrates a severe error in judgment and diminishes the dignity of constitutional institutions.
They urged the public to scrutinize this lapse.
Point of View
It is vital to underscore the importance of integrity within our constitutional frameworks. The disapproval expressed by retired judges highlights a critical evaluation of character and accountability in public office. Nation stands firm in advocating for transparency and ethical standards in governance.
NationPress
09/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the meeting about?
The meeting involved Justice B. Sudarshan Reddy, the Opposition Vice Presidential candidate, and Lalu Prasad Yadav, who is a convicted politician in the fodder scam.
Why did the retired judges express dismay?
The retired judges expressed dismay due to concerns over the legitimacy and appropriateness of the meeting, questioning Mr. Reddy's judgment in associating with a convicted individual.
What are the implications of this meeting?
The implications revolve around the integrity of constitutional institutions and the public's trust in individuals seeking significant political positions.
Who were the judges expressing their concerns?
The signatories included notable retired judges from various High Courts across India, including the Bombay, Jharkhand, and Delhi High Courts.
What did the senior advocates say?
At least 20 senior advocates also criticized the meeting, emphasizing that it undermines the dignity of constitutional institutions.
