A lawyer’s abrupt attempt to withdraw a contempt petition sparked a sharp rebuke from the Supreme Court bench Today (April 2). Justice Sanjay Kumar stressed that contempt cases involve the court’s dignity and can’t be taken lightly.
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NEW DELHI: In a dramatic moment inside the Supreme Court of India, a regular legal proceeding turned into an intense courtroom exchange, as the bench questioned a lawyer over his sudden request to withdraw a contempt petition.
The conversation between the bench and the counsel highlighted the seriousness of contempt proceedings and the expectations from lawyers to be well-prepared before addressing the court.
During the hearing, the counsel addressed the judges, saying,
“My Lords, we want to withdraw the contempt petition.”
This sudden request surprised the bench, prompting Justice Sanjay Kumar to immediately ask,
“Why? What has happened? You need to give us a reason. Has the order been complied with, or are you facing pressure?”
Rather than answering directly, the counsel instead requested a brief delay, saying,
“My Lords, I would like a passover.”
However, this did not go down well with the bench. Justice Sanjay Kumar, clearly not satisfied with the vague response, remarked firmly,
“Why? So you can come back with an excuse?”
The counsel then clarified,
“I need to seek instructions from senior counsel… I want to withdraw the petition.”
But Justice Sanjay Kumar remained unsatisfied with the justification and emphasized the seriousness of the issue.
He stated,
“You can’t just withdraw like that. You must provide a reason. Once contempt proceedings are initiated, it becomes a matter between the court and the alleged contemnor.”
Trying once again to delay the matter, the counsel repeated,
“I am only asking for a passover.”
This further frustrated the bench, as Justice Sanjay Kumar gave a stern reminder of the lawyer’s responsibilities, stating,
“You should at least read the case file before appearing. You can’t just come here and ask for a passover. We will take it up at 3 PM. Be ready by then.”
This entire exchange reflected the bench’s concern about the casual approach taken in a matter as serious as contempt. The court made it clear that such proceedings, once started, are no longer just a matter between two parties but involve the dignity of the judicial process itself.
The judges made it known that withdrawing a contempt petition without strong reasons is not acceptable, especially when court orders and justice are involved.
This courtroom moment serves as a reminder to legal practitioners about the importance of preparation, responsibility, and respect for legal procedures, especially in India’s apex court.
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