The Supreme Court set aside a contempt conviction against a Navi Mumbai woman who called judges part of a “dog mafia,” stressing that contempt power protects the institution, not individual judges. The Court said mercy must guide decisions when genuine remorse is shown.
The Supreme Court, led by CJI B.R. Gavai, closed the contempt case against a lawyer and litigant who made scandalous allegations against Telangana High Court Judge Justice Moushumi Bhattacharya, after their apology was accepted. The bench reminded that “Majesty of law lies in forgiving,” while cautioning lawyers against filing petitions with baseless accusations.
The Delhi High Court addressed a defamation case involving commentator Abhijit Iyer Mitra, filed by nine women journalists from Newslaundry. While not restraining Mitra, the court emphasized the importance of respecting free speech limits. The journalists seek a permanent injunction, public apology, and compensation for the alleged defamatory remarks made on social media.
Minister Vijay Shah faced an FIR initiated by the Indore police under High Court directives for controversial comments regarding Colonel Sofia Qureshi. The Supreme Court criticized Shah and urged him to apologize, which he did through a social media video, stressing his respect for the armed forces. He is now challenging the High Court’s ruling.