Jharkhand High Court Drops Contempt Case Against Advocate After Supreme Court Intervention
Court Accepts Apology, Stresses Senior Lawyers Must Show Greater Restraint
Incident Highlights Importance of Professional Conduct in Courtrooms
By Our Legal Correspondent
New Delhi: February 20, 2026:
In a significant development, the Jharkhand High Court has dropped suo motu contempt proceedings against Advocate Mahesh Tiwari after the Supreme Court urged the High Court to consider his unconditional apology. The case, which stemmed from a heated courtroom exchange in October 2025, had attracted widespread attention after a video of the incident went viral on social media. The ruling underscores the judiciary’s emphasis on maintaining decorum in courtrooms while also recognizing the role of remorse and apology in resolving such disputes.
Background of the Case
- On 16 October 2025, during proceedings in Court Room No. 24 presided over by Justice Rajesh Kumar, Advocate Mahesh Tiwari allegedly made remarks that were considered contemptuous.
- The incident was recorded and circulated widely, prompting the High Court to initiate suo motu contempt proceedings.
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Supreme Court’s Role
- Advocate Tiwari approached the Supreme Court seeking relief from contempt proceedings.
- On 23 January 2026, a bench led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi declined to quash the case but directed Tiwari to submit an unconditional apology.
- The Supreme Court emphasized that the matter was rooted in courtroom conduct and personal remorse, not a legal dispute requiring its intervention.
High Court’s Decision
- On 16 February 2026, the Jharkhand High Court accepted Tiwari’s apology and dropped the contempt case.
- The Court expressed disappointment that a seasoned lawyer with over 40 years of practice had initially shown bravado instead of repentance.
- It noted that senior lawyers are expected to demonstrate greater restraint and responsibility in their conduct.
Key Observations by the Court
- The judiciary must be respected, and lawyers play a crucial role in upholding its dignity.
- Senior advocates, given their experience, must act as role models for younger members of the bar.
- The Court warned that future misconduct would not be tolerated and urged Tiwari to avoid any “misadventure of scandalising or lowering the authority of the institution.”
Broader Implications
- The case highlights the delicate balance between freedom of expression and respect for judicial authority.
- It reinforces the principle that contempt powers are exercised sparingly, with emphasis on correction rather than punishment.
- The incident serves as a reminder to the legal fraternity that courtroom decorum is non‑negotiable.
- Legal experts believe the ruling will encourage advocates to adopt more professional restraint, especially in moments of disagreement with judges.
Conclusion
The dropping of contempt proceedings against Advocate Mahesh Tiwari marks a resolution that blends accountability with compassion. By accepting his apology, the Jharkhand High Court has reinforced the importance of professional conduct while also recognizing the value of remorse. The case sets a precedent for handling similar incidents in the future, ensuring that respect for the judiciary remains paramount.
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