Supreme Court directs virtual appearance for Nikhil Wagle, physical for Sanjay Raut in contempt case

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Published 28 October 2026

Case: Nikhil Wagle v. Supreme Court of India
Court: Supreme Court of India
Source: LiveLaw

Bottom Line Up Front (BLUF)

In Nikhil Wagle v. Supreme Court of India, the Supreme Court directed journalist Nikhil Wagle to appear virtually and politician Sanjay Raut to appear physically in a contempt case concerning comments made against the Chief Justice of India. The Court issued notices in the contempt petitions.

Ratio Decidendi · Legal Principle Established

The Supreme Court has the power to direct the mode of appearance (physical or virtual) for respondents in contempt proceedings, balancing convenience and the requirements of justice.

Practice & Procedural Impact for Advocates

Advocates should be prepared for the Supreme Court to issue specific directions regarding the mode of appearance for parties in contempt cases. Litigants should comply strictly with such directions to avoid further adverse orders.

Key Legal Takeaways

1The Supreme Court can mandate virtual or physical appearances in contempt proceedings.
2Contempt notices have been issued to Nikhil Wagle and Sanjay Raut.
3The case pertains to comments made against the Chief Justice of India.

The Legal Issue The Supreme Court of India is dealing with contempt petitions filed against journalist Nikhil Wagle and politician Sanjay Raut. The petitions allege that Wagle and Raut made objectionable comments against the Chief Justice of India. The primary issue before the Court was to ensure the appearance of the respondents in the contempt proceedings.

Court's Reasoning The Supreme Court, after considering the nature of the allegations and the convenience of the parties, decided to issue specific directions regarding their appearance. For Nikhil Wagle, the Court permitted a virtual appearance, acknowledging the potential logistical challenges. Conversely, for Sanjay Raut, the Court mandated a physical appearance. This differentiation indicates the Court's discretion in managing procedural aspects of contempt cases, balancing the need for due process with practical considerations.

What Follows The Supreme Court has issued notices to both Nikhil Wagle and Sanjay Raut in the contempt petitions. Nikhil Wagle is directed to appear virtually, while Sanjay Raut is directed to appear physically before the Court on the next date of hearing. Both respondents must comply with these directions for the continuation of the contempt proceedings.