Markandey Katju

Justice Katju on Lord Krishna’s Lessons in Emotion and Patriotism

Lord Krishna and Gopis

Justice Katju explores the balance between reason and emotion by referencing the tale of Lord Krishna and the gopis, highlighting how Udhav’s rational approach fails against the gopis’ emotional devotion. This narrative parallels the need for both reason and passion in addressing modern India’s socio-economic crises like poverty, unemployment, and malnutrition. Katju criticizes the self-centeredness of contemporary Indian youth, contrasting it with historical examples of patriotism from figures like Cincinnatus and American revolutionaries. He advocates for a passionate, united struggle led by selfless leaders to instigate a socio-economic revolution in India.

Justice Katju’s Insights into the Legal Prowess of Justice R Balasubramanian Both on Bench and Bar

Justice R Balasubramanian

Justice R. Balasubramanian, celebrated on his 80th birthday, was known for his vast legal knowledge and integrity during his tenure at the Madras High Court. As Chief Justice, Markandey Katju relied on his guidance, especially for court roster arrangements. An incident where Balasubramanian and colleague Prabha Sridevan faced criticism through leaflets demonstrated his resilience and humor. Post-retirement, he practiced law at the Supreme Court, maintaining his reputation as a skilled jurist.

Justice Katju Advocates for Cultural Integration Over Bengaluru’s Kannada Barriers

bengaluru

The viral tweet asserting that Bengaluru is closed to non-Kannada speakers has reignited debates on linguistic rights and regionalism in India. This stance potentially violates fundamental rights under Articles 19(1)(d) and 19(1)(e) of the Indian Constitution, which guarantee freedom of movement and residence across the country. The author criticizes the imposition of language learning, advocating for voluntary acquisition of languages like Kannada or Hindi for practical benefits. Emphasizing the unity of India, the author warns against regional linguistic barriers that could lead to the balkanization of the nation, urging a balanced approach to language policy and cultural integration.

Justice Katju’s Vision for India: A Call for Socio-Economic Revolution

Justice Katju

Justice Markandey Katju delineates the distressing state of Indian politics, where politicians exploit caste and communal divides for electoral gains, rather than addressing the nation’s dire socio-economic issues. He criticizes the forthcoming Delhi Assembly elections as a mere reshuffle of leaders without substantial improvement in citizens’ lives. Katju advocates for a united struggle aimed at transforming India into a developed nation akin to the USA or China, emphasizing the eradication of poverty, unemployment, and malnutrition. He calls for a revolutionary political and social order to ensure justice and a decent standard of living for all Indians.

Justice Katju’s Critique on Modi and Yogi’s Political Agenda of Kumbh Mela

Kumbh Mela

Justice Markandey Katju, a former Supreme Court judge and native of Allahabad, where the Kumbh Mela is held, critiques the politicization of this religious event in 2025. Having attended Kumbh Melas since 1954, he notes an unprecedented presence of political posters of PM Narendra Modi and UP CM Yogi Adityanath throughout the Mela premises. Katju argues that this year’s event, backed by a governmental expenditure of over Rs 9000 crores, marks a stark deviation from the secular ethos enshrined in India’s Constitution, specifically Article 51A(h), suggesting it’s a strategic move for upcoming elections, thus violating the principle of secularism.

An Atheist’s Perspective on the Purpose and Future Demise of Religion in the Shadow of Advancing Science” by Justice Katju

Justice Katju, an atheist, posits that religion serves as psychological support for the poor, preventing despair and suicide amid their harsh living conditions. He argues that even well-off individuals turn to religion due to the unpredictability of life and the underdevelopment of science. Katju predicts that as science progresses in the next century, control over life’s variables will increase, rendering religion obsolete. He views religions as superstitions, with science holding the true, albeit ever-evolving, understanding of the world.

Justice Katju writes on India’s Bad Sense of Humor and Intolerance

Justice katju humor

Justice Markandey Katju, in his commentary on the Indian sense of humor, recounts personal anecdotes where his attempts at humor led to significant backlash in Bihar and Odisha, but were well-received in regions like Nagaland, Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Uttar Pradesh. His experiences illustrate a diversity in humor appreciation across India; some regions respond with understanding and laughter to satirical remarks, while others react with offense and protest. Katju advises caution in jest, suggesting that cultural nuances significantly influence the reception of humor, advocating for a region-specific approach to comedy in India’s diverse cultural landscape.

Justice Markandey Katju on the Illusion of Indian Democracy: Applying Hegel’s Rationality to Current Governance

Mass poverty

In his critique, Justice Katju applies Hegel’s dictum “The real is the rational and the rational is the real” to contemporary India, arguing that the current political and constitutional framework has become irrational and, hence, unreal. He points out the failure of democracy, freedom, and judicial independence, suggesting that these have been undermined by caste politics, communalism, and corruption. Katju posits that this system, like the pre-Revolutionary French feudalism, is due for an overhaul. He envisions a future where rapid industrialization and rising living standards would constitute a rational, and thus real, social order.

Justice Katju’s Harsh Critique on the State of Patriotism Among Indian Youth

Indian youth

Justice Katju’s critique of contemporary Indian youth on National Youth Day, which coincides with Swami Vivekanand’s birthday, paints a stark contrast between past and present. He laments the perceived lack of patriotism among today’s youth, comparing them unfavorably to historical figures like Bhagat Singh and international examples of youthful sacrifice for national causes. However, he expresses hope in the emergence of a new generation inspired by the likes of Swami Vivekanand, potentially leading India towards a revolution for prosperity and dignity.

Katju’s View on Democracy or Deception – How Indian Independence Became a Facade for the Rule of Rogues

markandey katju

Justice Markandey Katju critiques the notion of India’s 1947 Independence as a ‘phoney freedom’, arguing that it did not liberate citizens from poverty, unemployment, or social injustices. He contends that the change from British to Indian rulers merely swapped oppressors, leading to governance by a corrupt, self-serving elite rather than the democratic ideal of rule by the people. Katju highlights the stark inequality, ineffective political leadership, and the misuse of nationalism to incite division, questioning the true value of the constitutional democracy established, which he sees as a scarecrow, ineffective against the real challenges facing the nation.

Justice Katju Highlights Secularism Violation with Kumbh Mela Funding

Kumbh Mela

Justice Markandey Katju criticizes the Kumbh Mela 2025 in Allahabad, scheduled from January 13 to February 26, where 400 million Hindus are expected to participate, believing a bath in the sacred Sangam will cleanse their sins. He deems this belief as superstition, opposing government expenditure of approximately Rs 9,000 crores on the event. Katju argues that this funding contradicts India’s secular constitution, which mandates a separation of religion from state affairs. He advocates for the use of these funds for public welfare like education and health. Additionally, he condemns the political exploitation of the Mela by BJP for electoral gains, as evidenced by the omnipresent images of Modi and Yogi Adityanath.

Justice Katju Critiques Government Funding for Kumbh Mela 2025 in Prayagraj

kumbh mela

The Kumbh Mela, a significant Hindu religious gathering, is set to begin in Prayagraj from January 13 to February 26, 2025, with an estimated 400 million attendees. Despite being an atheist, Justice Katju supports religious freedom but objects to the substantial government funding for the event, questioning the secular nature of India. He criticizes the expenditure on religious events like the Ram Temple and Kumbh Mela, arguing that such funds should aid public welfare. He also challenges the superstitious belief that bathing at the confluence of rivers can cleanse sins, suggesting it conflicts with the constitutional duty to promote scientific temper.

Justice Katju Highlights Unemployment and Corruption as Drivers of Indian Migration and Dunki

Dunki

Justice Katju outlines the reasons behind the mass migration of Indians abroad. The primary drivers include severe unemployment, where only a fraction of the 12 million youths entering the job market annually find formal employment, pushing many into informal or desperate livelihoods. Economic stagnation, coupled with a lack of vision from corrupt politicians, makes the future bleak. Additionally, environmental pollution, urban overcrowding, and escalating living costs exacerbate the situation. This combination of factors leads many Indians to seek better opportunities and quality of life abroad, often renouncing their citizenship, with the film “Dunki” illustrating this migration trend, albeit with an unrealistic depiction of returnees.

Arvind Kejriwal’s Hypocrisy : Struggles of Dr Ambedkar University Delhi Scholars

Arvind Kejriwal Ambedkar University Delhi

Arvind Kejriwal and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) are accused of hypocrisy in their treatment of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar University Delhi (AUD) scholars. While AAP champions Dr. Ambedkar’s educational legacy, Ph.D scholars at AUD suffer from irregular stipend disbursals, crucial for their survival. Despite funding from both the Delhi State Government and UGC, delays in stipend payments have forced scholars into part-time work, compromising research quality. The non-NET fellowship and AUDMRFS schemes face implementation issues, leaving scholars, including those from 2024, unpaid for months. This situation underscores a stark contrast between AAP’s educational promises and the reality at AUD.

Unveiling India’s ‘Fearful Odds’: Confronting Global Economic Barriers and the Call for People’s Revolution

This article discusses the “fearful odds” confronting India, focusing on the systemic barriers to its development. It posits that the primary adversaries are massive poverty, unemployment, child malnutrition, and inadequate healthcare and education, exacerbated by a global economic structure where developed countries covertly prevent underdeveloped nations from industrializing to protect their own economic interests. Additionally, internal feudal forces like casteism and communalism further hinder progress. The piece advocates for awareness of these challenges as the first step towards a historical, people-led struggle for transformation, potentially culminating in a revolution to overcome these socio-economic evils.

The Last Battle: Justice Katju’s Final Words on Duty and Death

Justice Katju Deathbed

In a heartfelt and solemn message, Justice Markandey Katju has informed The Philox about his deteriorating health. At 79, Katju, whose remarkable career has spanned the judiciary, academia, and public life, has shared the news that his time is drawing to a close. In his own words, he has expressed a sense of peace and resolve, having given his all in the service of his country and his ideals.

My spat with Ras Siddiqui

Justice Markandey Katju recounts a recent disagreement with Ras Siddiqui, a Pakistani-origin friend living in the USA. The conflict began after Katju published an article criticizing Benazir Bhutto, calling her a “big crook,” which Siddiqui opposed. Katju, in response, expressed his belief that Pakistan is an artificial entity, created by British colonialists to foster division between Hindus and Muslims, and that lasting harmony between India and Pakistan is impossible. He argues that the creation of Pakistan aimed to prevent India from becoming a modern industrial power. Katju shared his views in various articles, but Siddiqui has yet to reply.

The crook Benazir Bhutto, the Messalina of Pakistan

Benazir Bhutto

By Justice Katju Today, 27th December, is the death anniversary of former Pakistan Prime Minister Benazir  Bhutto For advertisement on our platform, do call at +91 6377460764 or email us at [email protected]. Many Pakistanis have praised Benazir e.g. the well known journalist Raza Rumi, for allegedly doing a lot for the welfare of the people … Read more

From Madras to Maargazhi: Justice Katju’s Spiritual Journey and Love for Tamil Nadu’s Traditions During the Sacred Month

Spending Maargazhi in California

In “Spending Maargazhi in California,” Justice Katju reflects on the significance of the Maargazhi month, which holds deep cultural and spiritual importance in South India. He shares his personal experiences, including his time as Chief Justice of the Madras High Court, where he became immersed in the traditions of Tamil Nadu, such as the singing of Thiruppavai and the daily drawing of kolams. Justice Katju also highlights the mystery of Andal’s vivid descriptions of Mathura, despite her limited travel. Now in California, he yearns for the spiritual and cultural vibrancy of Tamil Nadu during this sacred month.

Justice Katju on Manmohan Singh’s Blind Loyalty to Sonia Gandhi and Corruption During His Tenure

Manmohan Singh

Justice KatjuManmohan Singh: A Puppet Prime Minister and the Corruption Under His Watch –

India’s ancient connection with Christianity

India's ancient connection with Christianity

By Justice Katju For advertisement on our platform, do call at +91 6377460764 or email us at [email protected]. Since this is the Christmas season, it may interest many to know of India’s ancient connection with Christianity.  The first connection began with the birth of Jesus in a manger in Bethlehem, when an Indian named Caspar … Read more

The Unmatched Versatility of Mohammed Rafi: A Tribute by Justice Katju

Mohammed Rafi

On the 100th birth anniversary of legendary singer Mohammed Rafi, Justice Katju celebrates his unparalleled contribution to Hindi film music. Rafi is hailed as the greatest playback singer, known for his versatility, emotional depth, technical skill, and unique voice quality. His ability to sing across genres, from classical to romantic to patriotic, set him apart from contemporaries. Rafi’s collaborations with iconic composers produced timeless classics, and his songs continue to resonate today. His influence spans decades, making him a cultural icon whose legacy inspires generations. The article highlights Rafi’s lasting impact on Indian music.

Justice Katju Explores How Jesus Christ’s Mission to Reform Jewish Society Birthed Global Christianity

Justice Katju Explores How Jesus Christ's Mission to Reform Jewish Society Birthed Global Christianity

Christianity emerged as a reform movement within Judaism, led by Jesus Christ, who sought to challenge the corruption of Jewish priests. Following his crucifixion, his disciples spread his teachings among Jewish communities in the Roman Empire, leading to debates about inclusivity for non-Jews. The liberal faction, led by Paul, prevailed, allowing gentiles to join without adhering to Jewish customs, which facilitated Christianity’s growth. Its promise of social security, spiritual fulfillment, and equality resonated with the poor and slaves. Despite persecution, the faith expanded, ultimately becoming a major world religion through its human-centric ideology and community-based support system.

Richard Grenell’s tweets and what it portends for Pakistan

Richard Grenell

Richard Grenell’s recent tweets calling for the release of Imran Khan have sparked speculation regarding Pakistan’s political future. As a close ally of Donald Trump, Grenell’s statements suggest a potential shift in U.S. policy. Imran Khan’s imprisonment, following his shifting alliance toward China and Russia, has alienated U.S. interests in Pakistan. With widespread public support for Khan and the potential for instability under the current government, there is growing recognition that his return to power might restore stability. This article explores the implications of Grenell’s tweets for U.S.-Pakistan relations and Pakistan’s political landscape.

Justice Markandey Katju on Indian Constitution : Has it failed us or have the people failed the Constitution  ? 

The purpose of the Indian Constitution

Justice Markandey Katju critiques the premise of India’s Constitution, arguing that it was transplanted from Western models onto a feudal society without addressing the structural transformation required for modernization. He highlights how, despite initial progress, India’s modern institutions have been feudalized, eroding principles like secularism, liberty, and freedom of speech. He posits that true transformation necessitates a people-led revolution, citing historical examples from England, France, Russia, and China. Katju concludes that the Constitution alone cannot modernize a society, emphasizing the need for sustained societal change.

The purpose of the Indian Constitution

The purpose of the Indian Constitution

The purpose of the Indian Constitution is to deceive and hoodwink the Indian people into thinking that they are ruling themselves ( and thus have  a democracy  ) when the truth is that they are being ruled by a handful of crooks, who are looting them. 

Long Live CJI Sanjiv Khanna: Justice Katju Praises a Worthy Successor

Justice Khanna

Justice Sanjiv Khanna, alongside Justices Sanjay Kumar and Justice V. Ramasubramanian, has upheld the sanctity of the Places of Worship Act, 1991, by staying surveys of mosques and dargahs. This pivotal decision curbs potential communal unrest and reverses the impact of the Ayodhya verdict and subsequent interpretations that jeopardized secularism. Justice Khanna’s bold stance echoes the legacy of his great-uncle, Justice HR Khanna, known for his dissent in ADM Jabalpur. In contrast, former CJI DY Chandrachud’s rulings, including those in the Gyanvapi case, have been critiqued for undermining secular principles to advance personal ambition.

Most Americans do not seem to know about their own country’s great literature

After the American Civil War ( 1861-65 ) slavery was abolished, but the condition of blacks was still bad ( due to Jim Crow laws, Ku Klux Klan, etc ). The devious decision of the US Supreme Court in Plessy vs Ferguson, 1896, and the deceitful underhand principle ‘separate but equal’ which it laid down, legitimized racial discrimination against blacks and segregation all over America. 

We are one country By Justice Katju

Markandey Katju

Justice Markandey Katju envisions a future where India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh reunite as one nation, emphasizing their shared culture, history, and language. He argues that Hindustani, spoken widely across the subcontinent, unites these regions culturally. Katju views the 1947 Partition as a tragic British conspiracy exploiting the divisive two-nation theory, with Gandhi and Jinnah as unwitting agents. Highlighting Mughal Emperor Akbar as the true unifier of the Indian subcontinent, he critiques Partition’s lasting impact. Katju advocates for reconciliation and secular leadership to achieve reunification, urging citizens to embrace their shared identity and reject hostility towards their neighbors.

The Foolish Old Man who removed the mountains : By Justice Katju

markandey katju

 I am like that Foolish Old Man. I have repeatedly said that our national aim must be to transform India from a backward country to a modern industrial giant, like China or USA, because unless we do that we can never hope to abolish our massive poverty, massive unemployment, appalling level of child malnutrition ( every second child in India is malnourished, according to Global Hunger Index), skyrocketing prices of essential commodities, almost total lack of proper healthcare and good education for the masses, etc.