AITUC condemns the derogatory remarks of CJI against the youth and activists

The All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC) registers an unequivocal denunciation of the most outrageous remarks of the Chief Justice of India, Justice Surya Kant, stinging sections of unemployed youth and activists in derogatory terms such as “cockroaches” and “parasites.” Even though the Hon’ble Chief Justice has subsequently offered some clarifications, the language used is profoundly disturbing and reflects most insensitivity and apathy.

India today faces an unprecedented crisis of unemployment, precarious work, shrinking labour protections, and rising economic insecurity. Struggles and sufferings of millions of educated youth are immense. This is the making of the neo liberal economic policies that have weakened public employment, undermined labour rights, and expanded contractualization and privatisation. There are concerns that the Indian judicial system has fallen short to uphold the constitutional commitments of justice and equality to its people. In such a context it is empathy, not derision that should be invoked.

AITUC is equally disturbed by the deliberate disparaging references made towards social activists, RTI campaigners, social media critics, and those who question authority. Trade unions and democratic organisations have historically played a vital role in defending constitutional values, exposing corruption, protecting workers’ rights, and strengthening democracy. CJI’s remarks portraying dissenting voices as hostile to the ‘system’ delegitimises democratic participation.

The Supreme Court, in Indian constitution is the highest institution of immense moral authority. Judiciary is expected not only to uphold the Constitutional principles in judgments, but also to embody the constitutional values of dignity, equality and democratic spirit in public discourse. But the remarks of the CJI, occupying the ultimate judicial office, undermines these values.

AITUC reiterates that unemployed youth are victims of policy failures and economic inequality. Trade unions, RTI activists, journalists, and social movements are not enemies of the nation; they are indispensable pillars of democracy and constitutional accountability. Comparing unemployed youth to ‘cockroaches’ and ‘parasites’ is deeply offensive, dehumanising, and absolutely unacceptable.

This is not the first occasion when Justice Surya Kant's comments reflects his prejudice against the working people and trade unions. He had made unconscionable observation holding trade unionism responsible for slow industrial growth. These remarks had sparked severe backlash. The troubling hostility has found its expression again. This is not acceptable.

AITUC calls upon the Chief Justice of India and all constitutional authorities to exercise restraint and uphold the dignity of public institutions through language that reflects empathy, constitutional morality, and respect for the struggles of people within the contours of democracy.

Amarjeet Kaur General Secretary AITUC

Mobile: 9810144958

Press Statement released on 18th May 2026.