“What Have I Done Wrong? I Brought an SC Order”—CJI Suryakant Rejects Plea, Advises Lawyer to Apologize

New Delhi: The Supreme Court has delivered a stern directive in a case involving a lawyer practicing in the Jharkhand High Court. Chief Justice of India (CJI) D.Y. Suryakant’s bench dismissed the petition filed by advocate Mahesh Tiwari and instructed him to submit an unconditional apology before the High Court.

The matter arose after Tiwari allegedly disrupted proceedings in the Jharkhand High Court and made remarks such as “the country is burning because of the judiciary,” insisting on arguing his case in his own manner. He also reportedly warned the High Court against overstepping its authority.

Arguments Presented in the Supreme Court:
Senior advocate Siddharth Dave represented Tiwari, who faced criminal contempt proceedings for the incident that occurred on October 16, 2025, in Court No. 24 of the Jharkhand High Court. The incident was widely circulated on social media, prompting a five-judge bench headed by the Chief Justice of the Jharkhand High Court to take suo moto cognizance and initiate contempt proceedings.

Tiwari’s counsel argued that the matter arose due to a misunderstanding and that video clips circulating online exaggerated the situation. He requested the Supreme Court to consider the circumstances.

Supreme Court Orders:
The bench of CJI Suryakant and Justice Joymallya Bagchi acknowledged that Tiwari did not intend to disrespect the judiciary or obstruct judicial proceedings. Considering his expressed remorse, the Supreme Court allowed the case to be disposed of on the condition that Tiwari submits an unconditional apology affidavit before the Jharkhand High Court. The High Court was requested to consider the apology sympathetically and pass appropriate orders.

CJI Suryakant’s Remarks:
During the hearing, the Chief Justice remarked, “What is the problem? Why can’t he go? All five judges are familiar faces to him. He can appear, apologize, and if he wants, express himself respectfully before the court.” He further stated, “If he feels he has done nothing wrong, he should have the moral courage to oppose respectfully.”

Justice Bagchi’s Observation:
Justice Bagchi noted that such situations arise at all levels of the judiciary, where conflicts can challenge professional pride. The bench emphasized that circulating videos of court proceedings can pose a serious threat and must be addressed appropriately.

Background:
The Jharkhand High Court had earlier directed its registry to take suo moto cognizance and initiate criminal contempt proceedings under Article 215 of the Constitution of India and the Contempt of Courts Act, following Tiwari’s alleged remarks and conduct. The matter ultimately reached the Supreme Court, which has now resolved it with the condition of an unconditional apology.