'Courts are not as fragile ... ': SC says Nishikant Dubey's remarks on judiciary 'highly irresponsible'

NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Thursday pulled up BJP MP Nishikant Dubey for his remarks against the apex court saying that it reflected a "penchant to attract attention by casting aspersions on the court and its judges."A bench of CJI Sanjeev Khanna, in its order, said that Dubey's remarks were "highly irresponsible" and showed ignorance about the role of the constitutional courts and the duties and obligations bestowed on them under the Constitution.The apex court said that it is of the firm opinion that “courts are not as fragile as flowers to wither and wilt under such ludicrous statements”.The controversy stems from Dubey's remarks on the Supreme Court's handling of the Waqf (Amendment) Act. In an interview to ANI on Saturday last week, he said, “The Supreme Court is going beyond its limits. If everything is to be decided there, shut down Parliament,” alleging that the judiciary was provoking religious discord and accusing CJI DY Chandrachud of being responsible for “civil wars.He also criticised the court’s ruling on Article 377 and claimed it had usurped legislative powers, saying, “You want to take this country towards anarchy.” The BJP swiftly distanced itself from Dubey’s comments.Party president JP Nadda stated that the remarks were Dubey’s personal opinion and reiterated the BJP’s respect for the judiciary. He also cautioned party leaders against making such statements.Nishikant Dubey has faced a barrage of criticism following his remarks about the Supreme Court and the CJI, which erupted in a heated row. His statement drew swift condemnation, including from his own party, with the BJP president publicly disassociating from Dubey’s views.