Supreme Court Issues Criminal Contempt Notice to MP High Court Bar Association President Dhanya Kumar Jain

May 1, 2026 : The Supreme Court has issued a criminal contempt notice to Dhanya Kumar Jain, President of the Madhya Pradesh High Court Bar Association, Jabalpur, on a petition filed by the Bar Council of India.

A Bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi took note of allegations that Jain had submitted a complaint to the Superintendent of Police, Jabalpur, containing false and defamatory statements against BCI Chairman Manan Kumar Mishra and an Election Committee headed by former Supreme Court judge Sudhanshu Dhulia.

The dispute stems from issues relating to eligibility criteria for Bar Association office-bearers contesting State Bar Council elections. In his complaint, Jain allegedly made imputations against the CJI, questioned the propriety of appointing Justice Dhulia as Chairperson of the Election Committee, and accused the judiciary of mala fides. He also criticised judicial directions concerning reservation for women in Bar bodies, terming them an abuse of authority.

Jain further raised concerns about the Supreme Court’s handling of allegations involving former Delhi High Court judge Yashwant Varma, who was linked to a controversy over alleged recovery of unaccounted cash from his residence following a fire incident. The complaint described the episode as undermining judicial credibility.

During the hearing, Senior Advocate Guru Krishna Kumar, appearing for the BCI, submitted that Jain’s conduct warranted judicial action.

The Court directed Jain to show cause why proceedings under the Contempt of Courts Act should not be initiated against him. It also sought his response on why his licence to practise law should not be suspended and why he should not be removed from his position as a Bar Association office-bearer.

Expressing concern over the seriousness of the allegations—particularly given Jain’s representative role within the legal fraternity—the Court declined to grant ex parte relief sought by the BCI against any action on Jain’s complaint. Jain has been directed to appear before the Court and file his reply, following which the matter will proceed.