Former CJI Calls Babri Masjid a ‘Fundamental Desecration’
Retired Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud has stirred controversy by calling the 16th-century Babri Masjid a “fundamental act of desecration.” This contradicts the Supreme Court’s 2019 Ayodhya verdict, which emphasized legal principles and evidence over historical claims. Chandrachud made these remarks in an interview with journalist Sreenivasan Jain for Newslaundry, referencing archaeological findings from the ASI.
Contradictions with 2019 Ayodhya Verdict
Chandrachud was part of the five-judge Supreme Court bench that allowed the Ram Temple’s construction on the disputed Ayodhya site. The 2019 judgment stated that ASI’s report did not prove Babri Masjid replaced a demolished temple, noting a “gap of centuries” in the historical timeline. Yet, in his interview, Chandrachud stressed the archaeological evidence, saying it should not be ignored, even if legally limited.
Selective History and Legal Limits
He accused critics of having a “selective view of history” by ignoring evidence of a pre-existing 12th-century Hindu structure. However, he rejected any justification for the 1992 mosque demolition, stating the Supreme Court used legal standards like adverse possession to decide the case. He added that criticism claiming the verdict was based on faith over facts was unfounded.
Gyanvapi, Kashmir, and Post-Retirement Views
Chandrachud also addressed the Gyanvapi Mosque dispute, claiming Hindus worshipped in the cellar “through the ages”, despite Muslim opposition. On Jammu and Kashmir, he backed the government’s reorganisation, citing national security. Regarding post-retirement roles, he dismissed fixed norms, saying, “To each their own.”
His comments have reignited debate over historical narratives, judicial neutrality, and the limits of post-retirement judicial commentary.
