Court takes note of remarks by Mander

New Delhi, March 4: The Supreme Court on Wednesday took strong note of the Centre’s allegations that activist Harsh Mander, who sought lodging of FIRs against some BJP leaders, has also made certain objectionable remarks against the top court, “majesty of law,” the government and Parliament.

The top court not only refused to hear Mander’s counsel Karuna Nundy till the issue of his alleged hate speech is “sorted,” but also kept his petition to itself.

No sooner the hearing commenced, the bench told the counsel appearing in the matter that it has come to its notice that Mander has made some statements against the SC, the government and Parliament. “The petitioner (Mander) appeared before the HC. He made statements against the SC and Parliament,” the bench said in the packed courtroom. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Centre, took no time to respond to the remarks of the bench.

“Yes, he made such statements and it is routine for him and what he said can’t be repeated.” Mehta said, however, that he can make reference of some of the alleged hate speech delivered by Mander during the anti-CAA protests and at the JMU on December 16, 2019.

The law officer read out certain excerpts from alleged speech of Mander and said that they included objectionable statements about the apex court, Parliament and the government.

“We have seen the track record of the SC. We have no faith in the SC but we will go there as we have no choice. But, ultimate justice will be done on the streets,” Mehta said quoting Mander’s alleged hate speech.

He also referred to the speech which was allegedly provocative and was aimed at instigating Muslims. “If this is what you (lawyer for Mander) think of this court then we will have to deal with this. You heard the allegations and now, before we hear you, you see the allegations and respond to them,” the bench said.