CJI Surya Kant Addresses Misinterpretations of His Remarks on Youth

Clarification from Chief Justice Surya Kant

New Delhi, May 16: Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant expressed his discontent on Saturday regarding the media's portrayal of his recent comments, which included references to certain individuals as 'parasites' and comparisons of 'youngsters to cockroaches.' He clarified that these statements were misrepresented and were specifically directed at those entering professions with fraudulent degrees, not at the youth of India.

In his statement, CJI Kant conveyed his disappointment upon seeing reports that implied he had criticized the younger generation during a hearing of what he termed a 'frivolous case' in the Supreme Court on Friday.

He stated, 'I am saddened to see how a portion of the media has misquoted my remarks made during the hearing of a frivolous case yesterday.'

Further explaining his comments, the CJI emphasized that his critique was aimed at individuals who had infiltrated professions, including law, using 'fake and bogus degrees.'

He elaborated, 'What I specifically criticized were those who entered the Bar with the help of fraudulent degrees. Similar individuals have also infiltrated media, social media, and other esteemed professions, hence they are akin to parasites.'

Rejecting claims that his remarks targeted the youth, he labeled such interpretations as 'completely unfounded.' He stated, 'It is entirely baseless to suggest that I criticized the youth of our nation. I take pride in our current and future human resources, and every young person in India inspires me.'

The CJI further acknowledged that the youth of India are the 'foundation of a developed India' and expressed his profound respect and admiration for them. 'It is not an exaggeration to say that Indian youth hold great respect for me, and I view them as the pillars of a developed India,' he added.

This clarification followed a day after a Bench led by CJI Kant made pointed remarks during a hearing regarding a petition from an advocate contesting the Delhi High Court's decision not to grant him senior designation.

During the proceedings, the Bench, which included Justice Joymalya Bagchi, remarked on the presence of 'parasites' in society that threaten institutions and warned members of the Bar against associating with such individuals.

The CJI had also noted that some 'youngsters like cockroaches,' who struggle to find their footing in professions, resort to becoming 'media, social media, RTI activists, or other types of activists' and begin to attack others.

These oral observations sparked controversy and elicited varied reactions from different segments of society and social media users.