The ruling comes in response to what the court described as an aggressive and "coordinated campaign" designed to defame the judge and intimidate the judicial institution.
The judge, who is currently overseeing the Delhi liquor policy litigation, stated that the respondents have utilized social media to disseminate "extremely contemptuous and defamatory" content while the trial remains ongoing.
An Attack on Judicial Independence
In a stern address on Thursday, Justice Sharma revealed that the digital campaign reached a level of personal harassment, including the circulation of edited videos targeting her family members. She characterized these actions as an attempt by political figures to construct a parallel narrative outside the courtroom to sway public opinion and pressure the bench.
"This court did not expect political retaliation," Justice Sharma remarked. She emphasized that while the judiciary typically exercises restraint in the face of dissent, the organized nature of these attacks necessitated a formal legal response to protect the court's integrity.
Boycott and the Recusal Dispute
The conflict stems from Arvind Kejriwal's recent demand for Justice Sharma to recuse herself from the excise case, citing concerns over partiality. When the court declined to step down, Kejriwal announced a total boycott of the proceedings.
Explaining his decision on the social media platform X, the AAP chief invoked the principles of Satyagraha, stating that his "hope of receiving justice" from the current bench had been destroyed. He has since refused to present further arguments or appear for hearings in this specific matter.
Defending the Rule of Law
Justice Sharma asserted that the judiciary’s strength lies in public trust rather than political influence. She noted that any effort to systematically erode that confidence through vilification represents a grave threat to the legal system.
"The robe worn by a judge demands calmness," she noted, "however, sometimes remaining silent is not judicial restraint. The moment has arrived today."
The court is now set to move forward with the contempt process, marking a significant milestone in the friction between Delhi's ruling party and the high court.