Controversy erupted after Karnataka High Court Justice V Srishananda referred to the predominantly Muslim locality of Gori Palya in Bengaluru as ‘Pakistan’, causing a stir among social media users and local communities. The remarks were made in open court during a discussion on the enforcement of traffic laws and lane discipline under the Motor Vehicles Act.
During a hearing on August 28, concerning the Rent Control Act and related lease agreements, Justice Srishananda highlighted issues of traffic and law enforcement in Gori Palya, comparing the area’s enforcement challenges to those in a different country. “Go to that Mysuru Road flyover. Every auto rickshaw has got 10 people. It is not applicable because the Mysore flyover right up to the flower market from Gori Palya is in Pakistan, not in India. This is the reality,” the judge commented, emphasizing the difficulties faced by law enforcement in the area.
The judge’s comments quickly spread beyond the courtroom through a viral video clip, igniting debates and criticism for what many perceive as an insensitive and inappropriate analogy. Legal professionals and public figures have called for a more measured approach to language, especially in sensitive communal contexts.
Justice Srishananda further discussed the lack of traffic discipline in India compared to foreign countries, criticizing the non-enforcement of rules and the general indiscipline among road users. “In a foreign country, even if you are going slow at the speed of 40kmph, the police will come and shift you to the slow lane. Here, you go at your own speed, break the law and you get away with it,” he explained.
The session also touched on the dangers of overcrowded auto-rickshaws, particularly those carrying schoolchildren, highlighting a past incident where a van capsized, resulting in the deaths of three children. Despite these tragedies, the judge noted that significant preventative measures have yet to be taken, which contributes to ongoing risks on the roads.
