The Supreme Court Bar Association filed a criminal contempt petition on Friday, accusing MP Sanjay Raut and journalist Nikhil Wagle of making “deliberately misleading and disparaging” remarks about Chief Justice Surya Kant. The petition cited Raut’s claim that judges attend BJP‑led political events and dine with chief ministers but shun opposition leaders, and Wagle’s X post accusing the Chief Justice of “abusive” conduct. Both allegations were said to undermine public confidence in the judiciary.
In the hearing, Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi chastised the remarks as “deeply unfortunate” and warned that attacks on the institution could erode trust. “People don’t understand that they are being trapped,” Kant said, calling the comments a “very unfortunate” affront to the court’s integrity. He urged a “better sense” among all parties.
Raut, a Shiv Sena MP from UBT, has denied the allegations, claiming he was “targeted” by the ruling party and vowed to “go to jail for the country” if needed. He told reporters that his criticism was aimed at the court’s perceived bias and that he would continue speaking out. Raut also alluded to a conspiracy by the BJP, asserting that the court’s actions were politically motivated.
The journalist, who posted the comment on X on 15 October, issued a public apology and deleted the tweet the following day. “It was an emotional outburst,” Wagle said in a statement, citing frustration after reading a senior counsel’s remarks on 10 October. He insisted that the post did not reflect his usual conduct and that he had never used abusive language in public.
The bench ruled that Raut and Wagle would not need to appear in person at the next hearing scheduled for 27 October 2026, allowing them to submit written explanations. The court will review those submissions before deciding on any further sanctions. The SCBA has called for a swift resolution to protect the court’s reputation.