Delhi journalists slam ‘cockroach’ comment by chief justice

By A Representative

The Delhi Union of Journalists (DUJ) has expressed outrage over remarks reportedly made by , who described as “cockroaches” and “parasites of society.” The comments, directed at a lawyer during court proceedings, suggested that jobless individuals who turn to media, , or activism are undermining the system.

In a strongly worded press release, DUJ said the remarks reflect contempt for those who question governance and policy. The union noted that unemployment is rising due to government economic and social policies, citing even . It recalled that the CJI had earlier criticised trade unions for hindering industrial growth, and accused him of continuing to “blame the victims.”

The statement, signed by Sujata Madhok, President; S.K. Pande, Vice President; and A.M. Jigeesh, General Secretary, emphasised that many professional journalists have been forced out of for refusing to align with . These journalists, often mid-career or highly experienced, now continue their work independently on platforms such as YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram. Journalism graduates, too, struggle to find stable employment and turn to social media to establish themselves. DUJ saluted their resilience in pursuing despite limited resources.

According to DUJ, mainstream media is dominated by and reliant on , which results in coverage that largely reflects official viewpoints. In contrast, social media offers a diversity of voices and perspectives, often critical of those in power. “In that sense, social media is a true platform for democracy,” the union said, adding that it was “extremely distressing” to hear such disparaging remarks from the highest levels of the judiciary.

The union urged judges to empathise with the struggles of unemployed journalists, lawyers, and youth rather than dismissing them as parasites. It reassured and unemployed youth that questioning the system is essential to democracy and must continue for the betterment of the country.

Neville Cardus: The man who turned cricket writing into poetry

By Harsh Thakor* Neville Cardus was one of the most remarkable literary figures of the twentieth century. A prolific English writer and critic, he achieved distinction in two vastly different fields: cricket and classical music. Entirely self-taught, Cardus rose from humble beginnings to become both the cricket correspondent and chief music critic of The Manchester Guardian . His achievements in these contrasting disciplines earned him widespread acclaim and established him as one of the foremost critics of his generation. In February 2025, the cricketing and literary world marked the fiftieth anniversary of his death, which occurred in February 1975.

Ideological shifts and structural realities within India's left-wing insurgency

By Harsh Thakor* The Maoist insurgency in India is arguably at its weakest point since the formation of the Communist Party of India (Maoist) in 2004. Years of sustained counterinsurgency operations, leadership losses, shrinking territorial influence, declining recruitment, and growing technological advantages enjoyed by the state have significantly eroded the movement's operational capabilities.

The Dalit body on screen: Stereotypes, sacrifice, and subjugation in Hindi films

By Dr. Prem Singh* Despite centuries of reformist efforts, from Gandhi and Ambedkar to contemporary activists, the caste system remains deeply embedded in the Indian psyche. One of the primary reasons for this persistence is the religious sanction provided by Brahminical scriptures, which have shaped not only social structures but also cultural and artistic expressions.

Counterview

Search This Blog