NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Friday issued notices to journalist Nikhil Wagle and Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut in a criminal contempt petition filed by the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) over their alleged remarks against the Chief Justice of India (CJI). A bench headed by the CJI directed the two respondents to show cause why contempt proceedings should not be initiated against them. The court also exempted them from personal appearance at this stage.
SCBA President and Senior advocate Pradeep Rai told the bench that the association was distressed at having to initiate the proceedings, particularly because one of the respondents was a journalist and the other a Member of Parliament. Rai also argued that the matter could not be ignored, expressing concern that silence over the remarks could encourage others to make similar statements. Responding to the submissions, the CJI observed that people sometimes failed to recognise when they were being drawn into situations that could have wider consequences.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing in the matter, submitted that some individuals might make such remarks deliberately, believing they could exert pressure on the judiciary. He added that attempts to influence the court through such statements could ultimately prove futile.
The CJI observed that the judiciary had consistently upheld and protected citizens’ rights, expressing regret over continued criticism despite the courts’ role in safeguarding constitutional freedoms. The court expressed hope that better sense would prevail.
The matter will proceed in accordance with the responses to the notices issued to the two respondents.
