Hyderabad: Shiv Sena (UBT) Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Raut has tendered an unconditional apology to the Supreme Court over his remarks about the judiciary and Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant, asking the court to forgive him and close the proposed criminal contempt proceedings against him.
In an affidavit submitted to the court, Raut said his apology was made “with utmost sincerity and genuine remorse, without any reservation, justification or qualification.” He expressed respect for the Supreme Court and the judicial institution, acknowledging their constitutional responsibility to uphold the rule of law, protect constitutional values and safeguard citizens’ rights.
Raut said he regretted that his statements had led to the proceedings and acknowledged the importance of maintaining the dignity, independence and authority of the judiciary. He also recognised that public remarks about the courts require responsibility, careful consideration and restraint.
“He has no intention whatsoever of showing disrespect to this court or undermining the dignity, independence or authority of the judiciary,” the affidavit stated.
The Rajya Sabha MP reiterated that his apology was voluntary and did not seek to defend or qualify his earlier remarks. He said he would abide by the court’s wisdom and exercise greater caution and restraint in future public statements concerning the judiciary.
Raut has asked the Supreme Court to accept his apology, discharge the show-cause notice issued on October 16 and drop the proposed contempt proceedings.
On October 28, the Supreme Court directed Raut to appear in person at 2 pm on November 17 in connection with a criminal contempt petition filed by the Supreme Court Bar Association. (with inputs from media organisations)