New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Tuesday expressed strong displeasure over remarks made by former Union minister Maneka Gandhi criticising the apex court’s orders related to the stray dog issue, observing that her statements amounted to contempt of court.
A bench comprising Justices Vikram Nath, Sandeep Mehta and N.V. Anjaria noted that Gandhi had made sweeping remarks against the judiciary and others without due consideration. The court observed that such comments undermined the authority of judicial institutions and reflected a lack of restraint.
“She has made all kinds of remarks against everyone without even thinking,” the bench remarked, adding that the statements clearly fell within the ambit of contempt of court.
However, the apex court said it was refraining from initiating contempt proceedings against the former Union minister, citing the court’s “magnanimity.” The bench made it clear that while no formal action was being taken at this stage, the remarks were unacceptable and deserved strong disapproval.
The observations came in the context of ongoing legal deliberations concerning the management of stray dogs, an issue that has sparked public debate and litigation across the country.
The Supreme Court’s comments serve as a reminder that criticism of judicial orders must remain within constitutional limits and be expressed through appropriate legal channels, the bench indicated.
