The Supreme Court said public anger in high-profile cases is understandable but cannot control investigations or court decisions. Justice must be based on evidence and impartial inquiry, not media pressure or majority sentiment.
Justice G.R. Swaminathan heard contempt proceedings over alleged non-compliance in the Thirupparankundram Deepam matter, with officials saying prohibitory orders were only to control crowds. The Madras High Court granted time to the District Collector to file an additional affidavit and adjourned the case to March 2.
The Tamil Nadu DGP informed the Supreme Court that criminal cases have been registered against protesters for allegedly making caste and religion-based defamatory remarks against Justice G R Swaminathan. The action follows the Madras High Court judge’s order allowing the lighting of Karthigai Deepam on Thirupparankundram hill.
Justice GR Swaminathan questioned Senior Advocate Vikas Singh over reported remarks suggesting the judge had political ambitions during the Thiruparankundram lamp-lighting contempt hearing. The Madras High Court also sought an explanation from the State Chief Secretary over alleged non-compliance with court orders.
