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1996 Supreme(SC) 347
Supreme Court Of India
Decided On : (February 13, 1996)
PRESIDENT OF INDIA
Versus
BAL THACKERAY,editor SAMNA,in RE:
Acceptance of genuine unconditional apology and regret can lead to the discharge of contempt notices.
Headnote:
Apology - Contempt of Court - The court accepted the unconditional apology and regret expressed by Shri Bal Thackeray, leading to the discharge of the notices to all the respondents.
Fact of the Case:
Shri Bal Thackeray filed affidavits including a last affidavit expressing regret and unconditional apology for his actions, in accordance with the court's direction. His counsel also assured the genuineness of the apology.
Finding of the Court:
The court accepted the unconditional apology and regret expressed by Shri Bal Thackeray, leading to the discharge of the notices to all the respondents.
Issues: Contempt of Court
Ratio Decidendi: Acceptance of genuine unconditional apology and regret expressed by the contemnor led to the discharge of the notices to all the respondents.
Final Decision: The contempt petition was disposed of.
( 1 ) WE have perused the affidavits filed by Shri Bal Thackeray including his last affidavit dated 26/10/1995 which was filed by him in accordance with the direction given by us in the order dated 17/10/1995. Shri Bal Thackeray has tendered unconditional apology and expressed regret for his act which led to the initiation of this proceeding. In his affidavit, in addition to expressing his sincere regret and unconditional apology, he has also indicated that he has realised his mistake and he did not intend to cast even the remotest aspersion on any member of this court. Mr Ram Jethmalani, learned counsel for Shri Bal Thackeray, also gives us assurance to this effect on his behalf. We are satisfied that the unconditional apology which has been tendered and the regret expressed are genuine. We, therefore, accept the same and discharge the notices to all the respondents.
( 2 ) THE contempt petition is disposed of.
