CJI observes on public criticism

Chief Justice of India Surya Kant said on Friday, October 16, 2026 that people who came to the Supreme Court for relief later turned around to condemn and criticise the institution.

“condemn, criticise”

Contempt petition filed against two

The Supreme Court Bar Association filed a contempt petition against senior journalist Nikhil Wagle and Shiv Sena (UBT) Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Raut over their public remarks against the Chief Justice of India.

Attorney-General consents to proceedings

Attorney-General R. Venkataramani consented to the Supreme Court Bar Association's request to initiate contempt proceedings in the apex court against the two individuals.

Solicitor General says remarks deliberate

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta said such disparaging comments were made deliberately. They know, understand and do it deliberately, he argued, believing it brings pressure on the court.

“They know. They understand. They do it deliberately.”

Remarks followed CJI's meeting refusal

The alleged remarks followed Chief Justice Kant's decision to decline a request by Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi and Congress party president Mallikarjun Kharge to meet him.

CJI cited judicial propriety for refusal

The Chief Justice refused the meeting on grounds of judicial propriety and asked them to file a petition on the judicial side instead.

Court exempts pair from appearing in person

The court issued notices to Wagle and Raut but exempted them from appearing in person. The case will be heard soon, the court said.