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The Supreme Court of India, during a hearing on the Suo Motu RG Kar Case on September 17, 2024, sharply reprimanded a lawyer for attempting to introduce a political agenda into the proceedings. The case revolves around the alleged rape and murder of a trainee doctor at RG Kar Medical College Hospital in Kolkata, and the court has been actively examining the circumstances surrounding the incident and the responses of the West Bengal government. The lawyer, whose identity has not been disclosed, sought the resignation of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, arguing that her leadership was somehow responsible for the tragic event.
Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud, presiding over the bench along with Justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra, firmly rejected the lawyer's plea, declaring that the court was not a platform for political maneuvering. The CJI stated, "This is not a political forum, you are a member of the bar, we don't require your affirmation to what we say. What you say has to abide by the rules of legal discipline." The court emphasized that its focus was on addressing the grievances of the doctors affected by the incident and ensuring justice for the victim, not on passing judgment on political figures.
The CJI further stressed that the lawyer's attempt to inject political pressure into the proceedings was unacceptable and undermined the integrity of the court. When the lawyer persisted with his argument, the CJI warned him of potential removal from the courtroom, saying, "Look I am sorry, you please listen to me, otherwise I will have you removed from the court!" This stern response highlights the seriousness with which the court views any attempt to politicize legal proceedings, particularly when they concern sensitive issues like criminal justice and the safety of medical professionals.