The Supreme Court on Monday declined to entertain a petition filed by Ashutosh Dixit regarding alleged illegal mining activities in Madhya Pradesh. The petitioner had accused three companies associated with BJP MLA Sanjay Satyendra Pathak of engaging in “illegal and excessive mining” in the Sihora region of Jabalpur and protected forest lands. The bench directed the petitioner to seek relief from the High Court instead.

Tensions over Political Rhetoric During the proceedings, senior advocate Devadatt Kamat, representing the petitioner, alleged that a sitting MLA had contacted a judge to influence the case. However, Chief Justice DY Chandrachud expressed displeasure over what he termed as “political battles” being brought into the courtroom. The court warned against using judicial platforms for political leverage and emphasized the importance of maintaining decorum towards the judiciary.

Legal Recourse and Evidence The apex court maintained that if any contempt has occurred, it must be proven with substantial evidence in the appropriate forum. The Chief Justice remarked that the petitioner could present all relevant evidence to the High Court for further consideration. By granting permission to file the case at the state level, the Supreme Court ensured that the legal process regarding the illegal mining allegations remains active through the proper hierarchy.

At a Glance

• The Supreme Court rejected a petition against a BJP MLA involving illegal mining in Madhya Pradesh.
• The bench asked the petitioner to approach the High Court with necessary evidence and documents.
• The court criticized the trend of bringing political rhetoric and allegations of judge-calling into judicial arguments.
• It clarified that while any misconduct must be punished, the case should follow the standard legal hierarchy.