Justice Karnan seeks hearing in SC; fails to get assurance

Facing arrest, Calcutta High Court judge Justice C S Karnan on Friday again sought an urgent hearing before the Supreme Court, against his conviction and six month imprisonment for contempt of court.

A five-judge bench presided over by Chief Justice J S Khehar refused to grant any reprieve to the elusive judge as his counsel tried to bring out his predicament, saying the Registry was not listing the petition filed by Karnan.

“I may be arrested anytime. I want suspension of sentence,” advocate Mathews J Nedumpara submitted on behalf of the judge.

“What is this? You are coming to us morning, afternoon and evening. We have also already issued direction to the Registry,” the bench said, adding that he has to follow the procedure.

The bench also said the order on May 9 was passed by a seven-judge bench. The counsel then pointed out there is provision to tender apology under the Contempt of Court Act.

Justice Karnan had on Thursday contended before the apex court that the Registry was not admitting his write petition against the apex court's May 9 order.