Madras HC Halts Release of Book Targeting Judge, Seeks Contempt Proceedings

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In a stern move, the Madras High Court has barred the release of a book and pamphlet allegedly targeting Justice GR Swaminathan, a sitting judge, at the ongoing Chennai Book Fair. The court has also initiated suo motu criminal contempt proceedings against the publisher of the derogatory publication. A lawyer, B Jagannath, brought the matter to the court's notice, showing the pamphlet, which features a caricature of Justice Swaminathan. The publication has been widely circulated on social media since the judge's December 1 decision in the Thirupparankundram Karthigai Deepam case. The court termed the pamphlet's contents as 'highly offensive, abusive, and scandalous,' and directed the police to seize all copies of the book and prevent its circulation. The authorities were also instructed to serve notice to the publisher at their allotted stalls at the book fair. The court's action comes after a lawyer sought an urgent hearing, expressing concern over the impact of such publications on the judiciary. Additional Solicitor General ARL Sundaresan, representing the Union government, emphasized that criticizing a judgment is acceptable, but personal attacks on judges are not. The state government assured the court that it had no association with the pamphlet or publisher and pledged to prevent the circulation of any material targeting judges. The court will next hear the matter on January 22. The controversy arises from Justice Swaminathan's decision on December 1, which allowed a group of temple authorities to light a ceremonial lamp atop the Thirupparankundram Hills in Madurai. The state and district administration had opposed the ritual, citing law and order concerns, but the court directed them to make security arrangements and permit the devotees to light the lamp.