The Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) has informed the Supreme Court that it intends to submit joint suggestions along with the Union Government for framing guidelines aimed at preventing attacks on judges and regulating the media coverage of incidents that glorify such acts.

A Bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi was hearing a criminal contempt petition filed by the SCBA against Advocate Rakesh Kishore, who had thrown a shoe at then Chief Justice of India B.R. Gavai during court proceedings.

At an earlier hearing, the Bench had indicated that it was not inclined to initiate criminal contempt proceedings, and instead expressed its intention to focus on preventive measures to avoid recurrence of similar incidents.

During the hearing, Senior Advocate Vikas Singh, appearing for the SCBA, informed the Court that a draft set of guidelines had been prepared. He submitted that the Union of India should be impleaded in the matter, particularly since the proposed norms may involve regulation under the IT Rules or the Supreme Court Rules.

Singh highlighted the need to address responsible reporting by both traditional and digital media platforms, especially content that sensationalises or glorifies attacks on judges. He stated that coordinated action was required to ensure such material is not circulated or promoted.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Union Government, agreed with the submission and informed the Court that the Union would work jointly with the SCBA to place a consolidated proposal before the Bench.

Recording these submissions, the Court directed that the SCBA and the Union Government may place joint suggestions before it, covering preventive mechanisms and issues relating to reporting and public dissemination of such incidents.