The Punjab and Haryana High Court has closed contempt of court proceedings against 274 followers of self-styled godman Sant Rampal, who were accused of sending a booklet criticizing a High Court judge in 2019. The Division Bench discharged the contemnors after they issued an unconditional apology. This case is possibly the largest number of persons ever charged for criminal contempt in a single matter, with 11 contemnors passing away during the pendency of the case.
Contempt of Court Proceedings Against Followers of Sant Rampal Closed
The Punjab and Haryana High Court recently closed contempt of court proceedings against 274 followers of self-styled godman Sant Rampal. The followers had been accused of sending a booklet criticizing a High Court judge in 2019.
Background
Sant Rampal is a controversial figure who claims to be a spiritual guru. He has been arrested and charged with various offenses, including murder and sedition. In 2019, his followers were accused of sending a booklet to judges and lawyers criticizing the High Court judge who was hearing a case against Rampal.
Contempt Proceedings
The High Court initiated contempt proceedings against the followers, accusing them of interfering with the administration of justice. The followers defended themselves by claiming that they were unaware of the contents of the booklet and that they had not intended to disrespect the court.
Unconditional Apology
After a hearing, the High Court discharged the followers after they issued an unconditional apology. The court noted that the followers had expressed remorse for their actions and that they had not intended to obstruct the course of justice.
Significance
This case is noteworthy for several reasons. First, it is possibly the largest number of persons ever charged for criminal contempt in a single matter. Second, it demonstrates the seriousness with which the courts view interference with the administration of justice. Third, it shows that the courts are willing to give defendants a second chance if they show genuine remorse.
Top 5 FAQs
1. Who is Sant Rampal?
Sant Rampal is a controversial figure who claims to be a spiritual guru. He has been arrested and charged with various offenses, including murder and sedition.
2. Why were Sant Rampal's followers charged with contempt of court?
The followers were charged with sending a booklet criticizing a High Court judge who was hearing a case against Rampal.
3. What was the outcome of the contempt proceedings?
The High Court discharged the followers after they issued an unconditional apology.
4. What is the significance of this case?
This case is significant because it is possibly the largest number of persons ever charged for criminal contempt in a single matter. It also demonstrates the seriousness with which the courts view interference with the administration of justice.
5. What can be learned from this case?
This case teaches us that it is important to respect the courts and the administration of justice. It also shows that the courts are willing to give defendants a second chance if they show genuine remorse.
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After a suo motu proceeding that began in 2019, the Punjab and Haryana High Court has dismissed contempt of court charges against 274 devotees of self-proclaimed spiritual leader Sant Rampal. The court stated that the followers have shown remorse and have complied with the order to pay fines for their actions during a 2014 standoff at the godman's ashram. The decision to close the case has been met with mixed reactions, with some praising the court's mercy while others criticize it for letting the accused off too easily.
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