Karnataka HC judges praise 'Brahmin', associate it with pride at convention

Attending a convention organised by the Akhila Karnataka Brahmana Mahasabha in Bengaluru, two judges from the Karnataka High Court, Justices Vedavyasachar Srishananda and Krishna S Dixit, extolled the contributions of the community to society, highlighting doctrines such as Dvaita, Advaita, Vishishta Advaita, and Sudha Advaita, while expressing a feeling of pride when the term 'Brahmin' is mentioned.

During the convention, held on January 18 and 19 and titled ‘Viswamitra’, both judges emphasized the significant role the Brahmin community has played in the development of philosophical doctrines and the drafting of the Indian Constitution.

Justice Dixit underscored the contributions of prominent Brahmins such as Alladi Krishnaswamy Iyer and Gopalaswamy Iyengar, who were members of the Constitution's Drafting Committee. He also noted the advisory role of BN Rau, who later became the first Indian judge at the International Court of Justice, and highlighted Rau's pivotal contribution to the Constitution's framing.

Justice Dixit further elaborated on the distinction between "varna" and "caste," noting that the term Brahmin should be viewed in the context of varna, a system rooted in Hindu scriptures that outlines societal duties. He acknowledged the historical figures Vedavyasa and Valmiki, emphasizing that the Brahmin community has revered their contributions regardless of their backgrounds.

Justice Srishananda addressed the necessity of organizing such events, despite societal challenges like poverty and lack of access to education. He asserted that the purpose of these gatherings is to unite the community and discuss its issues, promoting a sense of shared identity and purpose. Srishananda emphasized that every action performed with devotion aligns with the spiritual teachings of the Bhagavad Gita and that the community's efforts should be seen in this light.

Both judges have previously been involved in controversies. In 2020, Justice Dixit faced criticism for a comment made while granting bail to an individual accused of rape. The remark, perceived as inappropriate, was later expunged following public backlash. Justice Srishananda was also embroiled in controversy when a video surfaced in which he referred to a Muslim-dominated area in Bengaluru as "Pakistan." The Supreme Court accepted his apology and closed proceedings related to the incident.