October 21, 2024: A significant controversy erupted on Monday when Samajwadi Party MP Ram Gopal Yadav was filmed making derogatory remarks about Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud. The comments came in response to the Chief Justice’s remarks regarding the Ayodhya dispute, particularly his statement about having "prayed to God."
During a media interaction, Yadav expressed his disdain, saying, "I do not want to make any comments. When you bring ghosts back to life... they become ghosts and start following justice. Where are they now?... Forget it, all such ******* people keep on saying such things. Should I take notice of them?"
The remarks quickly drew widespread condemnation, prompting Yadav to backtrack. When pressed for clarification, he claimed, "Nobody asked me anything about the CJI. The CJI is a very reputed person. I never made any comment (on him). I was asked about Bahraich (violence) and I responded to that."
Akhilesh Yadav, the leader of the Samajwadi Party and Ram Gopal's nephew, distanced himself from the controversy, stating he was unaware of the objectionable remarks but emphasized, "We all respect the CJI."
The incident has sparked a heated debate over decorum and respect for the judiciary in Indian politics, with many calling for accountability from public figures.