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HC judge Sharma orders contempt proceedings against Kejriwal over vilification campaign
Delhi High Court judge Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma initiated criminal contempt proceedings against Arvind Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia and Durgesh Pathak for a social media campaign against the court after denying Kejriwal's recusal plea. She reaffirmed the recusal-order and said the matter would be referred to the Delhi High Court chief justice for re-assignment to another bench.
Why It Matters
The development highlights tensions between political leadership and the judiciary, raising questions about symbols of accountability, media campaigns surrounding court orders, and potential impacts on ongoing litigation.
Timeline
6 Events
Recusal order stands; matter referred to Chief Justice for re-assignment
May 14, 2026
Justice Sharma stated she would stand by the recusal order and would place the matter before the Delhi High Court chief justice for the CBI's appeal against Kejriwal's discharge to be heard by another bench; she noted she would draw contempt proceedings if required, as per law a judge who draws contempt cannot hear the main case.
Criminal contempt proceedings initiated against Kejriwal, Sisodia and Durgesh Pathak
May 14, 2026
Justice Sharma initiated criminal contempt proceedings against Arvind Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia and former AAP MLA Durgesh Pathak for alleged social media campaign against the court.
Sanjay Singh posts 'no hope for justice' on X
May 14, 2026
AAP leader Sanjay Singh posted on X that there was 'no hope for justice' from the court, which the judge characterized as part of the vilification campaign.
AAP members share the letter and video on social media
May 14, 2026
Following Kejriwal's post, several AAP leaders, spokespersons and office bearers shared the letter and the accompanying video on social media.
Kejriwal posts letter announcing boycott on X at 10 am
May 14, 2026
At around 10:00 AM, Kejriwal posted a letter on the social media platform X announcing his decision to boycott court proceedings, a move described by the judge as part of a broader campaign.
Recusal plea denied by Delhi High Court
May 14, 2026
Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma refused to allow Arvind Kejriwal's plea seeking her recusal from hearing the CBI's appeal against Kejriwal's discharge order, delivering the denial on the same day as the proceedings.