'Cheap publicity': SC imposes fine for plea linked to CJI protocol breach

NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Friday imposed a fine of Rs 7,000 on a petitioner who filed a public interest litigation (PIL) over a breach of protocol in connection with the Chief Justice of India (CJI) BR Gavai's visit to his native state, Maharashtra.

The bench led by CJI BR Gavai observed that such a plea was nothing but a “publicity interest litigation” filed to gain “cheap publicity”, before dismissing the plea, reported news agency ANI.

Absence of top Maharashtra officials at an event to felicitate Justice BR Gavai, on his first visit to his home state after becoming CJI, had miffed the country's top judge but he said on May 20 that the "trivial issue" should be put to rest as the officials concerned had expressed regret.


In a press release, SC said, "News items are being published in the media regarding protocol issues during the visit of the CJI to Maharashtra. All concerned have already expressed regrets. The CJI has expressed that a trivial issue should not be blown out of proportion and has requested everyone that the matter be given a quietus."

Earlier, after CJI B R Gavai pointed out protocol lapses during his visit to Mumbai Sunday (May 18), the state government issued guidelines to ensure adherence to official decorum during CJI's visit to the state.

Neither the chief secretary nor the DGP or Mumbai police chief had turned up when Gavai arrived here. CJI has now been officially designated as a permanent state guest.

Bar Council of Maharashtra & Goa has sent a resolution to Bombay high court chief justice and CM seeking "action against erring officers" to ensure the dignity of the system is restored.