Supreme Court Criticizes Menka Gandhi for Contemptous Remarks on Stray Dogs

New Delhi: The Supreme Court expressed strong displeasure over former Union Minister Menka Gandhi’s comments criticizing the Court’s orders on stray dogs, observing that her remarks amounted to contempt of court. However, showing leniency, the Court decided not to initiate formal contempt proceedings against her.

Judges Highlight Improper Comments
A bench comprising Justices Vikram Nath, Sandeep Mehta, and N.V. Anjaria noted that Gandhi made “unconsidered comments against everyone.” The Court questioned her senior counsel, Raju Ramchandran, asking whether he had carefully assessed the nature and tone of her statements, including her podcasts and body language, which conveyed contempt. The bench remarked, “Ajmal Kasab never committed contempt of court, but your client has. We are refraining from action only due to the Court’s generosity.”

Arguments by Counsels
Ramchandran argued that this was not a contempt case and that politicians often make varied statements. Advocate Prashant Bhushan noted that sterilization of stray dogs had been inconsistent across cities—successful in places like Lucknow and Goa, but not effective elsewhere. Justice Mehta clarified that the Court cannot demand “sterilization certificates” from dogs.

Justice Nath emphasized that previous remarks by the Court, while appearing humorous, were intended seriously to highlight accountability for those feeding stray dogs. The next hearing in the case is scheduled for 28 January.