Kerala: CPI (M) leader denies contempt of court charges

Kochi, Jun 10: CPI(M) leader M V Jayarajan today (June 10) denied charges in the suo mottu criminal contempt of court case by the Kerala High Court.

The Division Bench consisting of Justice A K Basheer and Justice P Q Barkat Ali dismissed Jayarajan's petition seeking to defer framing of charges over his alleged remarks against the judiciary.

The Bench asked the counsel of Jayarajan not to "play to the gallery." When proceedings are pending before the court show respect to the court, the Bench said, and adjourned the case to July 20.

On May 30, the court had decided to frame contempt of court charges against Jayarajan for his alleged remarks against the judiciary.

When the case came up for hearing on Jun 8, the Court opined that his subsequent statement made last week also amounted to contempt. Criticising Jayarajan's conduct, the court said "we are not fools."

Jayarajan's counsel complained that they did not get opportunity to watch the video clippings of TV channels and they are moving the Supreme Court.

The court had decided to proceed with suo motu contempt of court case after examining the CDs of a speech made by Jayarajan allegedly abusing the judges.

Jayarajan, a marxist leader from Kannur, had reportedly used strong language against judges after a High Court ruling imposed restrictions on conducting roadside meetings by political parties.

PTI