Chennai, 23 February (H.S.) : Madras High Court Justice GR Swaminathan has triggered a significant national controversy following his provocative remarks directed at non-believers during a spiritual event in Tamil Nadu. Addressing a gathering organized by a spiritual body, the judge asserted that those who do not believe in spiritual gurus or the power of God are rascals, fools, and barbarians.
He stated that while some rationalists in the state use these terms for believers, he was reclaiming those labels to describe those who reject spiritual authority. The judge further declared that he has four more years of service remaining and intends to step up and act more courageously during his tenure.
This latest outburst comes at a time when Justice Swaminathan is already facing an impeachment motion moved by over 100 Members of Parliament. The motion follows a controversial judicial order he passed regarding the lighting of a ceremonial lamp at a stone pillar near a historic dargah in Thiruparankundram, which the state government had strongly opposed.
Critics and legal experts argue that his recent statements blur the vital line between personal religious conviction and the constitutional duty of a secular judiciary. In the past, the judge has faced scrutiny for suggesting that Sanatana Dharma would guide his judicial service and for describing the Indian Constitution as a copied document.
Latest updates indicate that the remarks have drawn sharp criticism from various political leaders and legal fraternities in Chennai, who claim such comments undermine the impartiality of the judiciary. Activists have expressed concern over the judge's public alignment with specific religious ideologies while holding a constitutional office.
Despite the mounting backlash and the pending impeachment proceedings, Justice Swaminathan emphasized the importance of spiritual aura and guidance in overcoming personal weaknesses. The unfolding situation has placed the Madras High Court at the center of a heated debate regarding judicial conduct and secularism in India.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Dr. R. B. Chaudhary
