AMRIT NAHATA vs UNION OF INDIA

The Supreme Court held that under Section 15 of the Contempt of Courts Act, 1971, a petitioner does not have an absolute right to withdraw a contempt petition once it has been initiated. The Court emphasized that it must determine whether contempt has occurred, considering the broader implications for respect for judicial processes. The Court permitted the withdrawal of contempt proceedings initiated against five individuals, following the acquittal of two prominent figures involved, thereby allowing the Union of India to withdraw both Criminal Misc. Petitions.