Supreme Court Warns Judges on Prejudicial Comments After 'Pakistan' Remark, Citing Threat to Territorial Integrity

Event Summary:

The Supreme Court addressed remarks by a Karnataka High Court judge who referred to a Muslim-dominated area in Bengaluru as “Pakistan.”

Judicial Response:

Chief Justice Chandrachud emphasized that such prejudicial comments contradict India’s territorial integrity and warned judges against making biased statements.

Outcome:

The Supreme Court decided to close the matter after the judge expressed regret in open court for his remarks, offering an apology.

Broader Concern:

The bench stressed that judges must avoid comments that can be perceived as misogynistic or discriminatory, as it impacts both public perception and the judicial system's integrity.

Judicial Ethics Reminder:

The court highlighted that impartiality, fairness, and constitutional values should guide judicial decision-making, especially in the electronic age.