The Supreme Court of India on Friday addressed a controversial remark made by Karnataka High Court judge Justice Vedavyasachar Srishananda, in which he referred to a Muslim-majority locality in Bengaluru as “Pakistan.” Leading a five-judge bench, Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud expressed concern over the issue, highlighting that the court had convened in response to videos circulating online that captured the judge’s “gratuitous” remark.

The comment, which has sparked widespread attention and criticism, was made during a landlord-tenant dispute hearing in Gori Palya, a locality in the western part of Bengaluru with a significant Muslim population. The remark comparing the neighborhood to Pakistan raised questions about judicial impartiality and sensitivity in such matters.

In addition to the contentious geographic reference, Justice Srishananda reportedly made a misogynistic comment during the hearing, further intensifying public backlash. The exact nature of the remark involving a woman lawyer has not been detailed but has drawn ire for perceived insensitivity.

CJI Chandrachud, while addressing the bench, underscored the seriousness of such remarks coming from a member of the judiciary. “Why we have assembled here is because of videos of Karnataka HC judge making some gratuitous remark,” he said, pointing to the impact of such statements on the integrity of the judicial process.

The Supreme Court has now sought a detailed report from the Karnataka High Court regarding the comments made by Justice Srishananda. The outcome of this inquiry may lead to further scrutiny of judicial conduct and could potentially result in disciplinary action.