an exhortation "get ready for the party" This
indicates that the original caption was intended to convey that the article in
questionis a judgment on our integrity. This is amply proved from the fact that
the Hon¿ble judges have been individually graded on personal integrity, depth
in law and quality of judgment delivered. In face of all this, it is not
possible to believe that the apologies have been tindered in good faith.proper
analysis and understanding of the contents and tenor of the article in question
is enough to prove this. No proof or any precedential authority is needed to
justify this conclusion of mine.
On the point of genuineness also, the apologies do not impress me.
Mere parrot like repetition of regrets in almost identically worded affidavits does not convince me that the respondents are really remorseful or repentant. Even on the last date of hearing there was an attempt to justify the offending publication with reference to some material. We would like to examine it and face it. When there is an attempt to justify the contents of the offending article even aftir filing affidavits of apology such apologies can be said to be anything but genuine.i am, therefore, inclined to agree with the learned counsel for the petitioners and learned Attorney General that it is only a ploy to escape the punishment. Accordingly, I hold that the apologies tendered by the respondents-contemners are neither genuine nor made in good faith. Therefore, I am not inclined to accept the same. I order accordingly.
We unanimously hold that prima facie contempt has been
committed by the respondents However, so far as accptance of apologies is
concerned, in view of the concousions of the majority, the directions contained
in paragraph NO. 26are to be carried out.
CHIEF JUSTICE.
ARUN KUMAR, J.
ANIL DEV SINGH, J.
D.K. JAIN, J.
May 28, 2001