Holding

Collective expressions of opinion by a resolution are not protected by the immunity of Article 105(2), but such resolutions, if within the rules of procedure and concerning matters of public interest, are permissible and do not violate the petitioner’s Article 19 right.

Summary

Retired Supreme Court Judge Markandey Katju posted Facebook remarks calling Mahatma Gandhi a British agent and Subhash Chandra Bose an agent of Japanese fascism. Both the Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha passed resolutions condemning his statements. Katju filed a writ petition under Articles 32 and 19(1)(a) seeking to quash the resolutions, alleging violation of his freedom of speech and denial of a hearing. The Supreme Court examined whether the resolutions were protected by the immunity of Article 105(2) and whether Parliament had jurisdiction to pass such resolutions. It held that collective expressions of opinion in a resolution are not covered by Article 105(2) immunity, making the petition maintainable, but found that the resolutions were within the Houses' procedural rules, related to matters of public interest, and did not infringe Katju’s fundamental rights. Consequently, the petition was dismissed.

Issues considered

The maintainability of the writ petition in view of the immunity granted by Article 105(2) of the Constitution.
Whether the resolutions passed by the Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha infringe the petitioner’s freedom of speech and expression guaranteed under Article 19(1)(a).
Whether Parliament has jurisdiction to pass resolutions condemning the remarks of a private citizen.
The applicability of natural justice – whether a hearing must be afforded before a resolution is passed.
The scope and limits of parliamentary privilege under Articles 105(1) and 105(2).

Legislation cited

Constitution of Indias. Art.105(1), s. Art.105(2), s. Art.105(3), s. Art.118, s. Art.121, s. Art.122(2), s. Art.19(1)(a), s. Art.194, s. Art.208, s. Art.211, s. Art.32

Subjects

parliamentary privilegefreedom of speechArticle 19Article 105resolutionwrit petitionnatural justiceRajya SabhaLok SabhaFacebook postderogatory remarksimmunity

Judgment

[2016] 11 S.C.R. 621

JUSTICE (RETD.) MARKANDEY KATJU A
v.
THE LOK SABHA & ANR.
(Writ Petition (Civil) No. 504 of2015)
DECEMBER 15, 2016 B
[T. S. THAKUR, CJI, R. BANUMATHI AND
UDAY UMESH LALIT, JJ.]
Constitution of India:
Arts. 32 and 105(2) - Derogatory remarks in Facebook post c
by retired Judge of Supreme Court against Mahatma Gandhi and
Subhash Chandra Bose - Lok Sabha as well as Rajya Sabha by
passing resolution condemned the remark.- - Writ petition seeking
quashing of the resolutions - Maintainability of the petition - Held:
Though Parliament/Houses have freedom of speech in Parliament
D
and anything said by Members in the Parliament is immune from
any proceeding in the Court - However, such immunity is not
available to collective expression of opinio11 by all Members
culmi11ati11g i11 a motio11 or resolution by the House - Therefore, the
present writ petition is maintainable.
Art.19(l}(a) - Derogatory remarks in Facebook post by retired E
Judge of Supreme Court, against Mahatma Gandhi a11d Subhash
Chandra Bose - Condem11ed by Lok Sabha a11d Rajya Sabha by
passi11g resolutio11s - Whether the condemnation resulted in
impairing the freedom of speech of the Judge - Held: Art.19(1)(a)
guarantees free speech and expressio11 - It makes 110 disti11ction F
a11d imposes 110 caveats whether such speech is popular or disse11ti11g
i11 11ature - I11 the present case, the Judge had exercised the freedom
of speech adequately - His freedom of speech in publica//y
expressing his views or propagating his ideas was not in any man11er
curtailed or impaired or placed under any restriction.
G
Art. 105(1) - Scope of - Derogatory remarks i11 Facebook
post, by retired Judge of Supreme Court against Mahatma Ga11dhi
a11d Subhash Chandra Bose - Resolutio11s passed by.Lok Sabha
a11d Rajya Sabha condemning the derogatory remarks - Whether
the Houses had jurisdiction to pass the resolutio11s - Held: For the
H
621
622 . SUPREME COURT REPORTS [2016) 11 S.C.R.

A free functioning of the Houses of Parliament or Legislatures of
State it is necessary that the representatives of people must be free
to discuss and debate any issues or questions concerning general
public interest. - It is entirely left to the discretion of the Presiding
Officer to permit discussion so long as it is within the confines of
Rulqs of Procedure - rr. 156, 155 and 157 of Rajya Sabha Rules
B
and rr. 171, 172 and 173 of Lok Sabha Rules show that a resolution
could relate to a matter of general public interest which could be in
the form of a declaration of opinion - However, the rules specify
the condition that the resolution shall not refer to the conduct or
character of persons except in their official or public capacity - In
c the present case, the condemnation by both the houses was of the
opinion of the petitioner and did not refer to the conduct or character
of the petitioner - The resolutions were purely in the form of
declaration of opinion - So long as the debate or discussion is
within the confines of the rules, it will be expressly within the powers
D of the House to disapprove such opinions - Rules of Procedure and
Conduct of Business in the Council of States (Rajya Sabha) - n: 155,
156 and 157 - Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in Lok
Sabha - rr. 171, 172 and 173.
Art. 105 - Privilege under - Nature of - Held: The privilege
of "freedom of speech in Parliament" is the privilege of Parliament/
E House in the first instance and then to its members - Such privilege
is not co11ji11ed to the individual members.
Natural Justice:
Right of being heard - Derogatory remarks made by a citizen
F (a retired Judge of Supreme Court) against Mahatma Gandhi and
Subhash Chandra Bose - Condemnation of the remarks by Lok
Sabha and Rajya Sabha by passing resolutions, without granting
opportunity of hearing to the citizen - Propriety of - Held: Passing
of resolution without giving opportunity of hearing is a matter of
concern - But, in what manner and to what extent the citizen be
G protected and insulated is for the concerned Houses and Legislatures
to decide.
Dismissing the writ petition, the Court
HELD: 1.1 The history of parliamentary privileges shows
H that the privileges have been defined as the sum of the
JUSTICE (RETD.) MARKANDEY KATJU v. THE LOK SABHA 623

fundamental rights of the House and of its individual Members A
inter alia, as against the prerogatives of the Crown and the
authority of the ordinary courts of law, that the term privilege
denotes certain fundamental rights of each House which are
generally accepted as necessary for the exercise of its·
constitutional functions, and that the privileges of Parliament are
B
rights which are absolutely necessary for the due execution of its
powers. The privileges are enjoyed by individual Members,
because the House cannot perform its functions without
unimpeded use of the services of its Members, and by each House
for the protection of its Members and the vindication of its own
authority and dignity. [Para 25) [647-G-H; 648-A-B] c
In Re Keshav Singh (1965) 1 SCR 413 - relied on.
1.2 The expression " ...... there shall be freedom of speech
in Parliament .•..... " occurring in first clause of Article 105 of the
Constitution, is general in nature; not confined to individual
members and is applicable to all discussions and debates in D
Parliament. The fact that this privilege is available to strangers
who publish under the authority of either House of Parliament
under sub-Article (2) and to those who have a right to speak in,
and otherwise take part in the proceedings of a House of
Parliament or any Committee thereof, is sufficient to refute the E
argument that it is only an individual privilege of a member of the
House. All privileges belong to the House, though some of them
may.also protect and shield individual members composing the
house. Thus, the privilege of "freedom of speech in Parliament"
is the privilege of Parliament in the first instance and then of its
Members. Further, going by the letter and spirit of first two F
Clauses of Article 105 and the long history associated with this
privilege right from Bill of Righ.ts, 1688, anything said by
Members in Parliament cannot be called in question in Court.
(Paras 25 and 28) [648-B-D; 651-A)
Richard William Prebble v. Television New Zealand Ltd. G
Law Reports : (1995) 1 A.C. 321; Ha111ilto11 v. Al Fayed
Law Reports : (iOOl) 1 A.C. 395 - referred to.
1.3 However, the immunity is not available to collective
expression of opinion by all Members culminating in a motion or
H
624 SUPREME COURT REPORTS [2016] 11 S.C.R.

A a resolution by the House and the House is not entitled to the
same protection under Article 105 (2). What is declared by Article
105(2) as immune from liability "to any proceedings in any court"
is not any or every act of the legislative body or Members thereof,
but only matters "in respect of anything said or any vote given"
by the Members "in Parliament or any committee thereof". If
B
Article 105(2) were to be construed so broadly, it would tend to
save even the legislative Acts from judicial gaze, which would
militate against the constitutional provisions. Therefore, the
present petition is maintainable. [Paras 28 and 30] [651-B-C, F-G;
652-F]
c Raja Ram Pal v. Hon 'ble Speake1; Lok Sabha 2007 (1)
SCR 317 : (2007) 3 SCC 184 - relied on.
2. Article 19(l)(a) of the Constitution guarantees free
speech and expression and makes no distinction and imposes
no caveats, whether such speech is popular or dissenting in
D nature. The petitione'r in the present case, exercised such
freedom of speech and exercised it rather adequately. His
comments and views on two famous personalities were available
for consumption in public domain. His freedom of speech in
publically expressing his views or propagating his ideas was not
E and is not in any manner curtailed or impaired or placed under
any restriction. [Para 31] [652-H; 653-A-B]
3. If any action is sought to be initiated against any citizen,
whether Member or Non-Member, either in exercise of contempt
or breach of privilege, the law that has developed is that the action
F of such citizen must have interfered with fundamental functioning
of the House so as to enable the House to initiate any proceedings
against the citizen. In cases concerning breach of privilege or
contempt such aspect whether the actions of the citizen had
interfered with the functioning of the Houses, is crucial and
fundamental. But in the present case, no action for either breach
G of privilege or contempt was initiated or exercised. Chapter 20
of Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in Lok Sabha)
(Lok Sabha Rules) entitled Privileges and Rules 222 to 228
thereof deal with matters of privileges. Similarly Rules 187 to
203 of Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in Council of
H
JUSTICE (RETD.) MARKANDEY KATJU v. THE LOK SABHA 625

States (Rajya Sabha) deal with issues concerning privileges. If an A
action for breach of privilege was initiated, the enquiry would
certainly be on the lines submitted by the petitioner, in that
whether his remarks had in any way impeded orinterfered with
the functioning of the Houses. [Para 34] [654-A-C]
Pandit MS.M Sharma v. Shri Sri Krishna Sinha and B
Others (Pandit Sharma I) (1959) Suppl 1 SCR 806;
Pandit MS.M Sharma v. Dr. Shree Sri Krishna Sinha
(Pandit Sharma JI) (1961) 1 SCR 96; In re:Keshav Singh
(1965) 1 SCR 413; Raja Ram Pal v. Hon 'ble Speaker,
Lok Sabha 2007 (1) SCR 317 : (2007) 3 SCC 184;
Amarinder Singh v. Special Committee, P1mjab Vidhan
c
Sabha and Others 2010 (4) SCR 1105 : (2010) 6 SCC
113; Lokayukta, Justice Ripusudan Dayal and Others
v. State of Madhya Pradesh and Others 2014 (3) SCR
242 : (2014) 4 SCC 473; Tej Kiran Jain and others v.
N. Sanjiva Reddy and others 1971 (1) SCR 612 : D
(1970) 2 SCC 272; P. V. Narasimha Rao v. State (CBI/
SPE) 1998 (2) SCR 870: (1998) 4 SCC 626- referred
to.
4.1 The only restriction in the Constitution as regards
subject matter of any debate or discussion is to be found in Article E
121 of the Constitution. It is axiomatic for the free functioning of
Houses of Parliament or Legislatures of State that the
representatives of people must be free to discuss and debate
any issues or questions concerning general public interest. It is
entirely left to the discretion of the Presiding Officer to permit F
discussion so long as it is within the confines of Rules of
Procedure. (Para 35) [654-E-F]

4.2 Rule 156 of Rajya Sabha Rules shows that a resolution
could relate to a matter of general public interest and under Rule
155 a resolution could be in the form of a declaration of opinion G
by Rajya Sabha. Under Rule 157 certain conditions are specified,
inter alia that the resolution shall not refer to the conduct or
character of persons except in their official or public capacity.
Rules 171, 172 and 173 of Lok Sabha Rules are also on similar
lines. [Para 36) (654-G-H; 655-A)
H
626 SUPREME COURT REPORTS [2016] 11 S.C.R.

A 4.3 In the present case, the condemnation by both the
Houses was of the opinion and remarks made by the petitioner
and did not refer to the conduct or character of the petitioner.
These resolutions were purely in the form of declaration of
opinion. Both the resolutions made reference to the offices held
B by the petitioner as a Judge of this Court and Chairman of the
Press Council and show that both Houses were conscious of the
fact that the remarks about Mahatma Gandhi and Netaji Subhash
Chandra Bose were made not by an ordinary person but by one
who had occupied high public office. In the context of such
remarks from a person of the stature of the petitioner, which
C were put in public domain, if both Houses thought it fit to pass
resolutions in the form of a declaration, it was certainly within
their competence. The nature of remarks regarding Mahatma
Gandhi and Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose pertain to general i>ublic
interest and as such the Houses were certainly within their
D jurisdiction to pass 1·esolutions. [Para 36) (655-B-D]
4.4 l<'reedom of speech in Parliament is subject only to such
of the provisions of the Constitution which relate to regulation of
procedure in Parliament. No separate law is required to confer
jurisdiction to deal with the opinions expressed by individuals
and citizens during debates. If the nature of opinions expressed
E by such citizens or individuals pertain to matters of general public
interest, it would certainly be within the powers of the House to
have a discussion or debate concerning such opinions. So long
as the debate or discussion is within the confines of the Rules, it
will be expressly within the powers of the House to disapprove
F such opinions. No restriction is placed by the Constitution or
the Rules of Procedure and none can be read in any of the
provisions. [Para 39] [657-G-H; 658-A-B]
l'Ves Michaud v. Michel Bissonnette 2006 QCCA 775 :
2015 QCCS 883 - referred to.
G 5. It is true that a citizen or an individual may find himself
In a situation where he has no way to reply to the discussion or a
resolution passed by the concerned House. The concerned
individual or citizen may also find himself in a position where the
resolution is passed without giving him any opportunity of hearing.
H
JUSTICE (RETD.) MARKANDEY KATJU v. THE LOK SABHA 627

This definitely Is a matter of concern and has engaged attention A
of the concerned in some countries. But, in what manner and to
what extent the citizen be protected and insulated is for the
concerned Houses and Legislatures to decide. [Paras ·39 and 41)
J658-B-C, H; 659-A]
Case Law Reference B
1971 (1) SCR 612 relied on Para 15
(1965) 1 SCR 413 relied on Para 17
1998 (2) SCR 870 referred to Para 20
c
2007 (1) SCR 317 relied on Para 28
(1959) Suppl 1 SCR 806 referred to Para33
(1961) 1 SCR 96 referred to Para33
2010 (4) SCR 1105 referred to Para33 D

2014 (3) SCR 242 referred to Para33.
CIVIL ORIGINAL JURISDICTION: Writ Petition (Civil) No.
504of2015.
E
Under Article 32 of the Constitution of India
Gopal Subratnanium, Sr. Adv., Shadan Farasat, Talha Abdul
Rehman, Arjun Harkauli, Ms. Anusha Ramesh, Rudra Pratap, Ritesh,
Advs. for the Petitioner. · ·
Mukul Rohatgi, AG, SaurabhKirpal, Ms. Devanshi Singh, Samit F
Khosla, Ms. Ranjeeta Rohatgi, Ad vs. for the Respondents.
Fali S. Nariman, Sr. Adv. (A.C).
The Judgment of the Court was delivered by
UDAYUMESH LALIT J. 1. This petition under Article 32 seeks G
quashing of Resolution dated 11.03.20 IS passed by Rajya Sabha and
Resolution dated 12.03.20 IS passed by Lok Sabha. In the alternative, it
is also prayed that the Houses of Parliament be directed to give to the
petitioner post decisional hearing.
H
628 SUPREME COURT REPORTS f20161 11 S.C.R.

A 2. On 10.03.2015, the petitioner, a former Judge of this Court
published a post on his Facebook Page in respect of Mahatma Gandhi,
Father of the Nation. The post was entitled "Gandhi -A British Agent"
and stated that Mahatma Gandhi did great harm to India. On the same
date, another post was published by the petitioner on his Facebook Page
in respect ofNetaji Subhash Chandra Bose referring to him as an agent
B
of Japanese fascism.
3. These posts evoked immediate response and on 11.03.2015,
discussion took place in Rajya Sabha. At the end of the discussion, a
Resolution was moved by the Chairman of Rajya Sabha which was
passed unanimously by the House. The Resolution was to the following
c effect:-
''This House expresses its unequivocal condemnation of the
recent remarks of the former judge of the Supreme Court,
Shri Justice Markandey Katju, against the Father of the
Nation Mahatma Gandhi and Netaji Subhash.Chandra Bose
D led the Indian National Army for the freedom of the countiy.
4. On the next day, discussion also took place in Lok Sabha
whereafter the following Resolution was passed by Lok Sabha on
12.03.2015:-
E "Father of the Nation Mahatma Gandhi and Netaji Shri
Subhash Chandra Bose both are venerated by the entire
country. The contribution of these two great personalities
to the freedom struggle of the country and their dedication
is unparalleld. The statement given by the former Judge of
Supreme Court and former Chairman of Press Council of
F India Shri Markandey Katju is deplorable. This House
unequivocally condemns the statement given by former
Judge of Supreme Court Shri Markandey Katju
unanimously."
5. On 23.03.2015, the petitioner sent e-mails to the Chairman,
G Rajya Sabha and to the Speaker, Lok Sabha that the aforesaid Resolutions
condemning his statements on Mahatma Gandhi and Netaji Subhash
Chandra Bose were passed by Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha without
giving him any opportunity of hearing and that rules ofNatural Justice
required that he should have been given an opportunity of hearing. The
petitioner, therefore, stated:-
H
JUSTICE (RETD.) MARKANDEY KATJU v. THE LOK SABHA 629
[UDAY UMESH LAUT, J.]

"I therefore request both Houses of Parliament, through A
you, to recall the resolutions and apologize to me, or else to
suspend the resolutions and give me an opportunity of
hearing, personally or through my lawyer.
_ 6. Since the petitioner did not receive any response from either
the Chairman, Rajya Sabha or the Speaker, Lok Sabha, he has filed the B
present petition. The petition states that it does not seek any relief against
any Member of Parliament individually but the Resolutions in question
do not fulfill jurisdictional requirement, and that whether the statements
are deplorable or condemnable can be judged only by bodies performing
judicial function and cannot be decided by Rajya Sabha or Lok Sabha.
The petition prays for quashing of the aforesaid Resolutions. 0 n c
03.08.2015, this Court while granting fulleropportunity to the petitioner
to make submissions on the points in question, requested Mr. Fali S.
Nariman, Senior Advocate to assist this Court as Amicus Curiae and
also requested Mr. Mukul Rohatgi,Attorney General to appear and make
his submissions. D
7. A written note was filed on behalf of the petitioner framing
certain questions and making submissions in respect Jhereto. The
questions so framed and the gist of the submissions are:-
"!. Does Article !9(l)(a) of the Constitution of India
guarantee an individual the freedom to hold and publicly E
express dissenting opinions?
..... it is submitted that Article I 9(1)(a) of the Constitution
oflndia guarantees to an individual the freedom to hold and
publicly express dissenting opinions without fear of any
form. It is the duty of the Legislature to respect and promote F
respect for such a right and not to curtail the same, either
by enacting legislations that run contrary to Article 19(2) or
to pass a resolution, condemning the exercise of such free
speech.
II. Whether Parliament can in the absence of a 'law' G
framed under Article I 9(2) of the Constitution of India
exercise jurisdiction over an individual and express
disapproval for the opinions expressed by him or her?
.... .It is submitted that in exercise of privilege, the
H
630 SUPREME COURT REPORTS [2016111 S.C.R.

A . petitioner's publications and comments could be subject
matter of discussion in Par! iament, as Parliament is free to
discuss any matter. However, it is not open to Parliament
to condemn the petitioner and his remarks as doing such an
act is not in aid offunctioning of Parliament ....
B ..... Jn exercise of its powers, Parliament can imprison,
admonish or reprimand a "stranger" only when doing so is
necessary for functioning of the House. It is submitted that
condemnation or disapproval is synonymous with
admonishing or reprimanding an individual. ....
c . . ... A "stranger" who makes a speech outside the house,
especially not connected with the functioning of Parliament
and not derogatory to Parliament, could not be taken notice
of by Parliament to punish him .....
Ill. Whether the privilege under Article I 05(1) of the
D Constitution is intended to secure freedom of expression
within Parliament or can it be exercised for the purpose of
silencing dissenting opinions which are a part of
fundamentally guaranteed freedoms under Article 19(1) (a)
of the Constitution?
.....Therefore, when Parliament is claiming a privilege,
E what is to be considered is whether Parliament is claiming
the privilege in respect of an act which is fundamental to its
functioning. Unless the answer is in affirmative, the claim
of privilege is to be disallowed .....
.. ... The power available with the House to deal with
F a stranger is only in relation to contempt of the House and
where the act complained of interferes with the functioning
of the House .....
.. ... At this present stage, it is necessary to point out
that there is no evidence on record or otherwise to suggest
G that the remarks of the petitioner in the present case affected
the functioning or the reputation of either House of
Parliament. Thus, the very initiation of action against the
individual petitioner is withoutjurisdiction. Jn fact, even the
text of the resolution is silent on the said aspect .....
H
JUSTICE (RETD.) MARKANDEY KATJU v. THE LOK SABHA 631
[UDAY UMESH LALIT, J.]

IV. Whether either House of Parliament could condemn A
any individual or his expression of his speech; when such
individuals were not discharging duties in public capacity
and where the speech does not interfere with the functioning
of Parliament.
The impugned resolutions passed by the Lok Sabha B
and Rajya Sabha condemn certain statements made by the
petitioner, who is a retired judge of the Supreme Court, and
former Chairman of the Press Council of India, purely in
his private capacity. Further, the resolutions were passed
the very next day after the aforesaid statements were made
public without even giving the petitioner an opportunity to c
present his response to either of the House and without
taking into consideration the entire analysis of the petitioner
including the underlying literature and viewpoints of various
scholars .....
..... Keeping in mind that the above rules stem from an D
express provision of the Constitution, and further, that these
R!!les are subject to the mandate of the Constitution, the
import of the above extracted rules, may be summarized as
follow: First, the subject matter of the resolution being moved
must be one of the general public interest. Second, a E
resolution condemn can only be directed at an act of
Government. Third, the resolution shall not contain
arguments, inferences, ironical expressions, imputations or
defamatory statements. Fourth, it shall not refer to the
conduct or character of persons except in their official or
public capacity. Fifth, the required notice period of two F
days has not been complied with ....
V. In the event Parliament did have the requisite jurisdiction,
could it have passed a resolution without giving an opportunity
of hearing to the petitioner?"
...... Assuming but not conceding that Parliament did G
have the requisite jurisdiction, a resolution could not have
been passed condemning the petitioner's views without even
giving an opportunity of hearing and taking into consideration
the entire material before reaching such an adverse
conclusion ..... " H
632 SUPREME COURT REPORTS f2016111 S.C.R.

A 8. Mr. F. S. Nariman, learned Amicus Curiae placed on record a
brief note of submissions, submitting inter alia:-
"lt is respectfully submitted that the questions raised in
the petition are no longer res integra. They stand concluded
by a decision of this Hon 'ble Court reported in 1970 (2) ·
B SCC 272 (Bench of 6 Hon'ble Judges)"upholding a full
Bench decision (of5 Hon'ble Judges) of the High Court of
Delhi; (reported in AIR 1971 Delhi 86)- and declaring (in
paragraph 8) 1 :-
"The Article (I 05) confers immunity inter alia in respect
of"anything said ....... in Parliament". The word 'anything'
c
is of the widest import and is equivalent to 'everything'.
The only limitation arises from the words 'in Parliament'
which means during the sitting of Parliament and in the
course of the business of Parliament. We are concerned
only with speeches in Lok Sabha. Once it was proved that
D parliament was sitting and its business was being transacted,
anything said during the course of that business was immune
from proceedings in any Court, this immunity is not only
complete but is as it should be. It is of the essence of
par! iamentary system of Government that people's
representatives should be free to express themselves
E
without fear of legal consequences. What they said is only
subject to the discipline of the rules of Parliament, the good
sense of the members and the control of proceedings by
the Speaker. The Cou1ts have no say in the matter and
should really have none.''
F
1
Foot Note as supplied by Mr. F.S. Nariman. learned Amicus Curiae in
his brief note of submissions:-
Paragraph 8 in Tej Kiran Jain case has been subsequently quoted with approval
in the following decision: viz.
(a) Capt. Virendra Kumar Advocate v. Shivraj Patil Speaker. Lok Sabha-( 1993)
G 4 SCC 97 (2 Judges) at para 8 page 101: citing Tej Kiran Jain Case:
(b) P.V. Narasimha Rao v. State (CBI)-( 1998) 4 SCC 626 (5Judges) Majority:
paras 109 and 113: citing Tej Kiran Jain case at para 113:
(C) Kuldip Nayar V. UOl-{2006) 7 sec 1 (5 Judges) para 367-373-citing Tej
Kiran Jain case (at para 371)
(d) Raj Ram Pal v. Hon'ble Speaker-(2007) 3 SCC 184 (5 Judges) at para 379
citing Te.i Kiran Jain case
H
JUSTICE (RETD.) MARKANDEY KATJU v. THE LOK SABHA 633
[UDAY UMESH LAUT, J.]

and A

"As was said in Kes/1av Singll-1965 (I) SCR 413 at 441-
442 (Bench of 7 Judges)-quoted in AfR 1971 Delhi 86-
clause (2) of Article 194 (as also clause (2) of Article 105)
"makes it plain that the freedom (of speech) is literally
absolute and unfettered". B

9. Mr. Mukul Rohatgi, learned Attorney General in his written
note submitted:-
"The petition under Article 32 is not maintainable
a. No fundamental right of the petitioner, the sine qua non ofa c
petition under Article 32 of the Constitution, has been
breached.
b. The petitioner had expressed an opinion which caused grave
anguish to right thinking people, including the elected
representatives of the people. He fully exercised his D
constitutionally guaranteed right under Article 19(1 Xa). The
resolution merely condemns his statement without visiting
any other consequence upon the petitioner. There is thus
no violation of his fundamental right to speech. The right to
speech does not include a right to immunity from criticism. E
c. There is no violation of Article 21. The resolution does not
defame the petitioner. It is an expression of opinion by the
House. Just as the petitioner has his opinion, so do members
of the House. In fact, it is the petitioner who has defamed
the Father of the Nation and Netaji, both illustrious sons of F
the soil. The first explanation to Section 499 fPC may be
seen. The petitioner, in other words, seeks to make
defamatory statements and is unable to bear criticism by
other members of the House.
Immunity of House Proceedings
G
a. The present petition, as can be seen from the Memo of
Parties, has been filed against the Houses of Parliament.
There is complete freedom of speech in the Houses as
guaranteed by Article 105 of the Constitution oflndia. It is
submitted that the right guaranteed under Attic le I 05 cannot
1-1
634 SUPREME COURT REPORTS r20l6l 11 S.C.R.

A be abridged, CU1tailed or called into question in any Court
of law. Any attempt to do so would violate the sanctity of
free parliament proceedings. Freedom of Speech in the
House is not subject to restrictions placed under Article 19
(2) of the Constitution.
B b. The proceedings of the House, as well as the officers of
the House, have immunity from being proceeded against in
any Court of law, inter alia under A1ticle 122(2) of the
Constitution. The only restriction on free speech within
Parliament is covered by Article 121 of the Constitution
and the good sense of Vice-President (Rajya Sabha) and
c the Speaker (Lok Sabha) to regulate the business of the
House.
The Resolution merely expresses an opinion
a. The various ru Jes of procedure make it clear that the nature
D of the Resolution was one without any statutory effect. It
was merely an expression of opinion of the House. This is
within the domain of the freedom of the House. Since the
petitioner was visited with no civil consequences, there is
no occasion for him to be heard. To contend otherwise would
completely stymie the functioning of Parliament.
E
This Hon'ble Court ought not to exercise its
discretion in this matter.
The petitioner has been a constitutional functionary, a judge
of the Apex Court. It is unbecoming of anybody including
the holder of constitutional posts to make scandalous remarks
F
against the father of the Nation and Netaji. This Comt ought
to summarily reject the petition in exercise of its discretion
under Article 32 of the Constitution."
I 0. The petitioner filed written response to the issue of
maintainability and submitted as under:
G
(a) " .... while Parliament is free to discuss any person or
conduct ofany person, Parliament usually does not discuss
the statements made by persons who are not public servants.
Even if Parliament does discuss the statements made by
private persons, it is not open to it to pass resolutions to
H
JUSTICE (RETD.) MARKANDEY KATJU v. THE LOK SABHA 635
[UDAY UMESH LALIT, J.]

condemn such persons or their statements. Parliament is A
not expected to take cognizance of statements of private
persons. This is rather clear from a bare reading of the
Rajya Sabha Rules as well as Lok Sabha Rules which do
not allow for any resolution to be passed in respect of private
citizens. In fact, passing a resolution to condemn the
B
petitioner or his statements, even in respect of' historically
respected personalities' is not necessary for functioning of
Parliament. Thus, there can be no claim to legislative
privilege in that regard.
(b) ... as opposed to the facts in Tej Kiran Jain where
the Members of Parliament had been sued personally, in c
the present case, the petitioner makes no claim against any
Members.
( c) ... the claim in Tej Kiran Jain emanated from
Article 105(2) of the Constitution which confers absolute
freedom on the Members of the House. On the other hand, D
in the present case the resolutions have been passed by the
Houses of the Parliament, which certainly do not fall within
the plain words of "anything said or vote given". It is
submitted that impugned resolutions have been passed in
exercise of powers conferred on the houses of Parliament E
by Article 105(3) of the Constitution .... "
11 . We heard Mr. Gopal Subramanium, learned Senior Advocate
for the petitioner, Mr. Mukul Rohtagi, learned Attorney General for the
respondents and Mr. Fali S. Nariman, learned Senior Advocate-Amicus
Curiae who assisted the Court. We are grateful for the assistance F
rendered by all the learned counsel.
12. Before we turn to consider the matter, we may quote Article
I 05 as well as Articles 121 and 122 of the Constitution:-
"I 05. Powers, privileges, etc of the Houses of
Parliament and of the members and committees G
thereof:
(I) Subject to the provisions of this Constitution and the
rules and standing orders regulating the procedure of
Parliament, there shall be freedom of speech in Parliament.
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636 SUPREME COURT REPORTS f20161 I I S.C.R.

A (2) No member of Parliament shall be liable to any
proceedings in any court in respect of anything said or any
vote given by him in Parliament or any committee thereof,
and no person shall be so liable in respect of the publication
by or under the authority of either House of Parliament of
any report, paper, votes or proceedings.
B
(3) In other respects, the powers, privileges and immunities
of each House of Parliament, and of the members and the
committees of each House, shall be such as may from time
to time be defined by Parliament by law, and, until so defined
shall be those of that House and of its members and
c committees immediately before the coming into force of
Section 15 of the Constitution (Forty fourth Amendment)
Act 1978.

(4) The provisions of clauses (I), (2) and (3) shall apply in
relation to persons who by virtue of this Constitution have
D
the right to speak in, and othenvise to take part in the
· proceedings of, a House of Parliament or any committee
thereof as they apply in relation to members of Parliament.

121. Restriction on discussion in Parliament
E . No discussions shall take place in Parliament with respect
to the conduct of any Judge of the Supreme Court or of a
High Court in the discharge of his duties expect upon a
motion for presenting an address to the President praying
for the removal of the Judge as hereinafter provided.
F 122. Courts not to inquire into proceedings of
Parliament
(1) The validity of any proceedings in Parliament shall not
be called in question on the ground of any alleged irregularity
of procedure.
G
(2) No officer or member of Parliament in whom powers
are vested by or under this Constitution for regulating
procedure or the conduct of business, or for maintaining
order, in Parliament shall be subject to the jurisdiction of
any court in respect of the exercise by him of those powers."
H
JUSTICE (RETD.) MARKANDEY KATJU v. THE LOK SABHA 637
[UDAY UMESH LAUT, J.]

The comparable articles as regards Powers, Privileges and A
Immunities of Houses of State Legislature, are A11icles 194, 211 and
212 of the Constitution.
13. In terms of Article 118 of the Constitution, both Houses of
Parliament have made rules for regulating their procedure and conduct
ofbusiness. Chapter 11 of"Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business B
in the Council of States (Rajya Sabha)" (hereinafter referred to as "Rajya
Sabha Rules") deals with subject "Resolutions" and the relevant Rules
are:-
"CHAPTER Xl
RESOLUTIONS
154. Notice
c
A member other than a Minister who wishes to move
a resolution on a day allotted for private members'
resolutions, shall give a notice to that effect at least two
days before the date of draw of lot. The names of all
members from whom such notices are received ·sh.all be D
drawn by lot and those members who secure the first five
places in the draw of lot for the day allotted for private
members' resolutions shall be eligible to give notice ofone
resolution each within ten days of the date of the draw of
lot.
E
155. Form
A resolution may be in the form of a declaration of
opinion by the Council or in such other form as the Chairman
may consider appropriate.
156. Subject-matter F
Subject to the provisions of these rules, any member
may move a resolution relating to a matter of general public
interest.
157. Conditions of admissibility
G
In order that a resolution may be admissible, it shall
satisfy the following conditions, namely:-
(i) it shall be clearly and precisely expressed;
(ii) it shall raise substantially one definite issue;
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638 SUPREME COURT REPORTS r2016l l l S.C.R.

A (iii) it shall not contain arguments, inferences, ironical
expressions, imputations or defamatory statements;
(iv) it shall not refer to the conduct or character of persons
except in their official or public capacity; and
· (v) it shall not relate to any matter which is under
B adjudication by a court oflaw havingjurisdiction in any part
oflndia.
158. Chairman to decide admissibility
The Chairman shall decide on the admissibility of a
C resolution, and may disallow a resolution or a part thereof
when in his opinion it does not comply with these rules."
14. Similarly Chapter 13 of"Rules of Procedure and Conduct of
Business in Lok Sabha" (hereinafter referred to as Lok Sabha Rules)
deals with subject "Resolutions" and the relevant Rules in that Chapter
are:-
D
CHAPTER XIII
Notice of Resolution
170. A member other than a Minister who wishes to move
a resolution on a day allotted for private members'
E resolutions, shall give a notice to that effect at least two
days before the date of ballot. The names of all members
from whom such notices are received shall be balloted and
those members who secure the first three places in the
ballot for the day allotted for private members' resolutions
F shall be eligible to give notice ofone resolution each within
two days after the date of the ballot.
Form of Resolution
171. A resolution may be in the form of a declaration of
opinion, or a recommendation; or may be in the form so as
G to record either approval or disapproval by the House of an
act or policy of Government, or convey a message; or
commend, urge or request an action; or call attention to a
matter or situation for consideration by Government; or in
such other form as the Speaker may consider appropriate.
H
JUSTICE (RETD.) MARKANDEY KATJU v. THE LOK SABHA 639
[UDAY UMESH LAUT, J.]

Subject matter of Resolution A
172. Subject to the provisions of these rules, a member or
a Minister may move a resolution relating to a matter of
general pub Iic interest.
Adtpissibility of Resolution
B
173. In order that a resolution may be admissible, it shall
satisfy the following conditions, namely:-

.
(i) it shall be clearly and precisely expressed;
(ii) it shall raise substantially one definite issue;
(iii) it shall not contain arguments, inferences, ironical
c
expressions, imputations or defamatory statements;
(iv) it shall not refer to the conduct or character of persons
except in their official or public capacity; and
(v) it shall not relate to any matter which is under adjudication D
by a court oflaw having jurisdiction in any part oflndia.
Speaker to decide Admissibility
174. The Speaker shall decide whether resolution or a part
thereof is or is not admissible under these rules and may
disallow any resolution or a part thereof when the Speaker E
is of the opinion that it is an abuse of the right of moving a
resolution or calculated to obstruct or prejudicially affect
the procedure of the House or is in contravention of these
rules."
15. Before we deal with the questions raised by the petitioner, · F
issue of maintainability of this Writ petition must be addressed. According
to the petitioner, the reliance on the ratio in Te] Kiran Jain am/ otlters
v. N. Smtjiva Reddy and ot/1ers1 is confined to cases where individual
Members of Parliament are sued and will not cover cases where
resolution(s) of the House(s) are called in question while according to G
the learned Amicus Curiae the issue stands fully covered by· Tej Kiran
Jain (supra).
16. The historical background including the discussions in the ·

'(1970) 2 sec 212
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640 SUPREME COURT REPORTS f2016l ll S.C.R.

A Constituent Assembly regarding draft Article 85, which Article
corresponds to Article I 05 of the Constitution has been dealt with in
extenso by this Court in Raja Ram Pal v. llon'ble Speaker, Lok
St1bfut3 in paragraphs 111 to 127 of its judgment and for the present
purposes, we may quote paras 111 and 112:- ·
B "111. Dr. Ambedkar, the Chairman of the Drafting
Committee of the Constitution, while mooting for the
parliamentary system similar to the one obtaining in England
noted, in the course of debates in the Constituent Assembly,
that in the latter jurisdiction, the parliamentary system relies
on the daily assessment ofresponsibility of the executive
c by Members of Parliament, through questions, resolutions,
no-confidence motions and debates and periodic assessment
done by the electorate at the time of election: unlike the
one in the United States of America, a system far more
effective than the periodic assessment and far more
D necessary in a country like India. India thus adopted
parliamentary constitutional traditions.
112. The concept of parliamentary privileges in India in its
modem form is indeed one of graft, imported from England.
The House of Commons having been accepted by the
E Constituent Assembly as the model of the legislature, the
privileges of that House were transplanted into the Draft
Constitution through Articles I 05 and 194."
17. As regards "freedom of speech and debates or proceedings in
Parliament'', this Court in Special Reference No. I of 1964 (Keslmv
F Singh 's case)' in paragraph No 72 observed:-
"72. It would be relevant at this stage to mention broadly
the main privileges which are claimed by the House of
Commons. Freedom of speech is a privilege essential to
every free council or legislature, and that is claimed by both
the Houses as a basic privilege. This privilege was from
G
1541 included by established practice in the petition of the
Commons to the King at the commencement of the
Parliament. It is remarkable that notwithstanding the

J(2007J 3 sec 184
'(1965) 1SCR413
H
JUSTICE (RETD.) MARKANDEY KATJU v. THE LOK SABHA 641
[UDAY UMESH LAUT, J.]

repeated recognition of this privilege, the Crown and the A
Commons were not always agreed upon its limits. This
privilege received final statutory recognition after the
Revolution of 1688. By the 9'" Article of the Bill ofRights,
it was declared "that the freedom of speech, and debates
or proceedings in Parliament, ought not to be impeached or
B
questioned in any court or place out of Parliament".
18. "Freedom of Speech" in discussion and debates in the House,
which was so statutorily recognized by Article 9 of the Bill of Rights
Act, 1688 in the UnitedKingdom, found expression in specific terms in
sub-section (7) of Section 67 of the Government of India Act, 1915
which declared, "Subject to the rules and standing orders affecting the c
chamber, there shall be freedom of speech in both chambers of the
Indian Legislature. No person shall be liable to any proceedings in any
court by reason of his speech or vote in either chamber ....... ". Section
71 of the Government oflndiaAct, 1935 dealt with "Privileges etc. of
members of Provincial Legislatures" and sub-section (I) thereof provided: D
"Subjectto the provisions ofthis Act and to rules and standing
orders regulating the procedure of the Legislature, there
shall be freedom of speech in every Provincial Legislature
and no member of the Legislature shall be liable to any
proceedings in any court in respect of anything said or any E
vote given by him in the Legislature or any Committee
thereof....... "
Section 86(1) of the Government of India Act, 1935 prohibited
discussion in the Provincial Legislature regarding the conduct of any
Judge of the Federal Court or High Court in the discharge of his duties F
while in terms of Section 87, the validity of any proceedings in a Provincial
Legislature could not be called in question on the ground of any alleged
irregularity of procedure. The Indian Independence Act, 1947 conferred
sovereign legislative power on the Indian Dominion Legislature. India
(Provisional Constitution) Order, 194 7, issued by the Governor General
oflndia on 14.08.1947 made large scale amendments to the Government G
oflndiaAct, 1935, the important being Sections 28, 38, 40 and 41 which
were brought into force for the first time. Sub-sections (I) and (2) of
Section 28 were as under:
"(l) Subject to the provisions of this Act and to the rules
H
642 SUPREME COURT REPORTS f20161 ll S.C.R.

A and standing orders regulating the procedure. of the
Dominion Legislature there shall be freedom of speech in
the Legislature, and no member of the Legislature shall be
liable to any proceedings in any court in respect of anything
said or any vote given by him in the Legislature or any
committee thereof, and no person shall be so liable in respect
B
of the publication by or under authority of the Legislature
of any report, paper, votes or proceedings.
(2) In other respects, the privileges of members of the
Dominion Legislature and, until so defined, shall be such as
were immediately before the establishment of the Dominion
c enjoyed by members of the Indian Legislature."
The substantive provisions ofaforesaid Section 28 find reflected
in draft Article 85 which was debated upon in the Constituent Assembly.
This part is extensively dealt with by this Court in paragraphs 111to127
in its judgment in Raja Ram Pal (supra).
D
19. We now turn to the ambit and extent of"freedom of speech in
Parliament" expressly conferred under Article 105 of the Constitution.
While dealing with first three clauses of Article 194 of the Constitution
(which are identical in substance to that of Article I 05 in its application
to Parliament), this Court in Keshav Singh's case (supra) observed as
E
under:-
"30. It will be noticed that the first three material clauses
of Article 194 deal with three different topics. Clause (I)
makes it clear that the freedom of speech in the legislature
of every State which it prescribes, is subject to the provisions
F
of the Constitution, and to the rules and standing orders,
regulating the procedure of the legislature. While
interpreting this clause, it is necessary to emphasize that
the provisions of the Constitution to which freedom of
speech has been conferred on the legislators, are not the
G general provisions of the Constitution but only such of them
as relate to the regulation of the procedure of the legislature.
The rules and standing orders may regulate the procedure
of the legislature and some of the provisions of the
Constitution may also purport to regulate it; these are, for

H
JUSTICE (RETD.) MARKANDEY KATJU v. THE LOK SABHA 643
[UDAY UMESH LALIT, J.]

instance, Articles 208 and 211. The adjectival clause A
"regulating the procedure of the legislature" governs both
the preceding clauses relating to "the provisions of the
Constitution" and "the rules and standing orders".
Therefore, clause (I) confers on the legislators specifically
the right of freedom of speech subject to the limitation
B
prescribed by its first part. It would thus appear that by
making this clause subject only to the specified provisions
of the Constitution, the Constitution-makers wanted to make
it clear that they thought it necessary to confer on the
legislators freedom of speech separately and, in a sense,
independently of Article 19(1 )(a). If all that the legislators c
were entitled to claim was the freedom of speech and
expression enshrined in Article 19(1 )(a), it would have been
unnecessary to confer the same right specifically in the
manner adopted by Article 194( I); and so, it would be
legitimate to conclude that Article 19(1 )(a) is not one of the
D
provisions of the Constitution which controls the first part
of clause ( l) of Article 194.
31. Having conferred freedom of speech on the legislators,
clause (2) emphasizes the fact that the said freedom is
intended to be absolute and unfettered. Similar freedom is
guaranteed to the legislators in respect of the votes they E
may give in the legislature or any committee thereof. In
other words, even if a legislator exercises his right of
freedom of speech in violation, say, of Article 211, he would
not be liable for any action in any court. Similarly, if the
legislator by his speech or vote, is alleged to have violated F
any of the fundamental rights guaranteed by Part Ill of the
Constitution in the Legislative Assembly, he would not be
answerable for the said contravention in any court. If the
impugned speech amounts to libel or becomes actionable
or indictable under any other provision of the law, immunity
has been conferred on him from any action in any court by G
this clause. He may be answerable to the House for such
a speech and the Speaker may takeappropriate action
against him in respect of it; but that is another matter. It is
plain that the Constitution-makers attached so much
H
644 SUPREME COURT REPORTS [2016] 11 S.C.R.

A importance to the necessity of absolute freedom in debates
within the legislative chambers that they thought it necessary
to confer complete immunity on the legislators from any
action in any court in respect of their speeches in the
legislative chambers in the wide terms prescribed by clause
(2). Thus, clause (I) confers freedom of speech on the
B
legislators within the legislative chamber and clause (2)
makes it plain that the freedom is literally absolute and
unfettered."
20. Similarly, while dealing with Article 105 of the Constitution in
P.V. Narasimfla Rao v. State (CBIISPEF. Justice S.P. Bharucha (as
c the learned Chief Justice then was)6 speaking for majority, observed as
under:- ·
"109. By reason of sub-article (1) of Article 105, Members
of Parliament enjoy freedom of speech subject only to the
provisions of the Constitution and the rules and standing
D orders regulating the procedure of Parliament. That express
provision is made for freedom of speech in Parliament in
sub-article (I) of Article 105 suggests that this freedom is
independent of the freedom of speech conferred by Article
19 and unrestricted by the exceptions contained therein.
E This is recognition of the fact that Members need to be
free of all constraints in the matter of what they say in
Parliament if they are effectively to represent their
constituencies in its deliberations. Sub-a11icle (2) ofArticle
105 puts negatively what sub-article (1) states affirmatively.
Both sub-articles must be read together to determine their
F content. By reason of the first part of sub-article (2) no
Member is answerable in a court of law or any similar
tribunal for what he has said in Parliament. This again is
recognition of the fact that a Member needs the freedom
to say what he thinks is right in Parliament undeterred by
G the fear of being proceeded against. A vote, whether cast
by voice or gesture or the aid of a machine, is treated as an
extension of speech or a substitute for speech and is given

'< J998) 4 sec 626
6
S.P. Bharucha, J. spoke for himself and for S. Rajendra Babu, J. In his separate
H opinion. G N. Ray, J. concurred with the view of S.P. Bharucha. J.
JUSTICE (RETD.) MARKANDEY KATJU v. THE LOK SABHA 645
[UDAY UMESH LAUT, J.]

the protection that the spoken word has. Two comments A
need to be made in regard to the plain language of the first
part of sub-article (2). First, what has protection is what
has been said and a vote that has been cast, not something
that might have been said but was not, or a vote that might
have been cast but was not. Secondly, the protection is
B
broad, being "in respect of'. It is so given to secure the
freedom of speech in Parliament that sub-article (I)
provides for. It is necessary, given the role Members of
Parliament must perform. The protection is absolute· against
court proceedings that have a nexus with what has been
said, or a vote that has been cast in Parliament. The second c
part of sub-article (2) provides that no person shall be liable
to any proceedings in any court in respect of the publication
of any report, papers, votes or proceedings if the pub Iication
is by or under the authority of either House of Parliament.
A person who publishes a report or papers or votes or
proceedings by or under the authority of Parliament is
D
thereby given protection in the same broad terms against
liability to proceedings in any court connected with such
publication. The Constitution having dealt with the all-
important privilege of Members of Parliament to speak and
vote therein as they deem fit, freed of the fear of attracting E
legal proceedings concerning what they say or how they
vote, provides for other powers, privileges and immunities
in sub-article (3). Till defined by Parliament by enactment,
they are such as were enjoyed before the Constitution came
into force, that is to say, they are such as were enjoyed by
the House of Commons just before 26-1-1950. For it to be F
established that any power, privilege or immunity exists
under sub-article (3), it must be shown that that power,
privilege or immunity had been recognised as inhering in
the House of Commons at the commencement of the
Constitution. So important was the freedom to speak and G
vote in Parliament thought to be that it was expressly
provided for, not left to be gathered, as other powers,
privileges and immunities were, from the House of
Commons. Insofar as the immunity that attaches to what is
spoken in Parliament and to a vote given therein is
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646 SUPREME COURT REPORTS [2016111 S.C.R.

A concerned, provision is made in sub-article (2); it is only in
other respects that sub-article (3) applies. For the sake of
completeness, though we are not here concerned with it,
we must add that sub-article (4) gives the protection of the
sub-articles that preceded it to all who have the right to
address the House, for example, the Attorney General."
B
21. The observations of this Court in the aforesaid cases make it
clear that "freedom of speech in Parliament" is absolute and unfettered;
that the freedom of speech so conferred is subject only to such of the
provisions of the Constitution which relate to regulation of procedure in
Parliament; that this is recognition of the fact that Members need to be
c free ofall constraints of what they say in Parliament; that clause (2) of
Article I 05 puts negatively what clause (1) states affirmatively; that
both clauses must be read together to determine their content; that a
vote, whether cast by voice or gesture is an extension of speech or a
substitute for speech; that what has protection under these sub-Articles
D is what has been said and a vote that has been cast; that the protection
is broad, being "in respect of'; that ifthe impugned speech amounts to
libel or becomes actionable or indictable under any provision of law,
immunity has been conferred from any action in any Court; and that the
Constitution makers attached so much importance to the absolute freedom
in debates that they thought it necessary to confer complete immunity
E on the legislators from any action in any Court in respect of their
speeches.
22. As against clauses (I) and (2) of Article I 05 which guarantee
"freedom of speech in Parliament" and correspondingly provide for
complete immunity, the other privileges as per clause (3) are those which
F shall be such as may from time to time be defined by Parliament by law
and until so defined shall be those of that House and ofits Members and
Committees immediately before coming into force of Section 15 of the
Constitution (441h Amendment) Act, 1978. "Freedom of speech" in the
House is considered so sacrosanct and essential for the very functioning
G of the House that it finds specific mention with the immunity clearly
specified. The absolute nature of such freedom of speech weighed with
this Court in Tej Kirtm J"i" (supra), when a Bench of six Hon'ble
Judges of this Court held that the expression "anything" is of widest
import and is equivalent to "everything" and that the only limitation arose
from the expression "in Parliament" which meant during the sitting of
H
JUSTICE (RETD.) MARKANDEY KATJU v. THE LOK SABHA 647
[UDAY UMESH LAUT, J .]

Parliament and in the course of business of Parliament. This Court A
observed:-
"Once it was proved that parliament was sitting and its
business was being transacted, anything said diiring the
course of that business was immune from proceedings in
any Court this immunity is not only complete but is as it B
should be. It is of the essence of parliamentary system of
Government that people's representatives should be free
to express themselves without fear of legal consequences.
What they said is only subject to the discipline of the rules
of Parliament, the good sense of the members and the
control of proceedings by the Speaker. The Courts have no
c
say in the matter and should really have none."
23. The question therefore is, whether the aforementioned
observations are confined to individual members.
24. In so far as debates or discussion in the Houses of Parliament D
are concerned, the only substantive restriction found in the Constitution
is in Article 121 of the Constitution which specifically mandates that no
discussion shall take place in Parliament in respect of the conduct of any
Judge of the Supreme Court or of a High Court in the discharge of his
duties. Barring such provision under Article 121, the Constitution has
placed no restriction on what can be debated or discussed in Parliament. E
It is completely left to the wisdom or discretion of the individual Houses
and the presiding authorities in terms of the Rules of Procedure of each
House. It is for this reason that this Court in Keslutv Singlt 's case
(supra) observed that the "freedom of speech in Parliament" is subject
only to such provisions of the Constitution and to the rules and standing F
orders regulating the procedure of Parliament. Substantively, apart from
Article I 21, the Constitution itself places no restriction on the subject
matter of discussion or debate.
25. The history of parliamentary privileges as found by this Court
in the aforementioned cases shows that the privileges have been defined
G
as the sum of the fundamental rights of the House and of its individual
Members inter alia, as against the prerogatives of the Crown and the
authority of the ordinary courts of law, that the term privilege denotes
certain fundamental rights of each House which are generally accepted
as necessary for the exercise of its constitutional functions, and that the
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648 SUPREME COURT REPORTS f2016l 11 S.C.R.

A privileges of Parliament are rights which are absolutely necessary for
the due execution of its powers.The privileges are enjoyed by individual
Members, because the House cannot perform its functions without
unimpeded use of the services of its Members, and by each House for
the protection of its Members and the vindication of its own authority
and dignity. The expression " ...... there shall be freedom of speech in
8
Parliament. ...... " occurring in first clause of Article 105, is general in
nature; not confined to individual members and is applicable to all
discussions and debates in Parliament. Secondly, the fact that this privilege
is available to strangers who publish under the authority of either House
of Parliament under sub-Article (2) and to those who have a right to
c speak in, and otherwise take part in the proceedings of a House of
Parliament or any Committee thereof, is sufficient to refute the argument
that it is only an individual privilege of a member of the House. All
privileges belong to the House, though some of them may also protect
and shield individual members composing the house.

D 26. In Richard William Prebble v. Television New Zea/mu/
Ltd. 1 , which was an appeal from Court of Appeal of New Zealand,
Privy Council was called upon to consider an interesting question. In
terms of Article 9 of the Bill of Rights, 1689, which is enforced in New
Zealand by virtue of Section 242 of the Legislature Act, 1908 and the
Imperial Laws Application Act, 1988, freedom of speech and debates or
E proceedings in Parliament ought not to be impeached or questioned in
any Court or place out of Parliament. The defendant in that case
submitted that this parliamentary privilege would not apply where it is
the Member of Parliament himself who brings proceedings for libel.
The Privy Council did not accept that, the fact that the maker of the
F statement in the Parliament was the initiator of the Court proceedings
would in any way affect the question whether Article 9 was infringed.
· It was observed,
"The privilege protected by Article 9 is the privilege of
Parliament itself. The actions of any individual member of
G Parliament, even ifhe has an individual privilege of his own,
cannot determine whether or not the privilege of Parliament
is to apply. The wider principle encapsulated in Blackstone's
words quoted above prevents the courts from adjudicating
on issues arising in or concerning the House, viz. whether
7 Law Reports: ( 1995) I A. C. 321
H
JUSTICE (RETD.) MARKANDEY KATJU v. THE LOK SABHA 649
[UDAY UMESH LAUT, J.)

or not a member has misled the House or acted from A
improper motives. The decision of an individual member
cannot override that collective privilege of the House to be
the sole judge of such matters."
It was thus found that Article 9 could not be waived and the
privilege of"freedom of speech" is the privilege of the House as a whole B
and while it protects individual Members, it still continues to be privilege
of the House.
27. While considering effect of Section 3 of the Defamation Act,
1996 under which any individual Member of Par! iament bringing
defamation proceedings is given power to waive for the purposes of c
those proceedings, protection of any parliamentary privilege, House of
Lords in Hami/to11 v. Al Fayed" observed:-
. "Before the passing of the Act of 1996, it was generally
considered that parliamentary privilege could not be waived
either by the Member whose par! iamentary conduct was in 0
issue or by the House itself. All parliamentary privilege exists
for the better discharge of the function of Parliament as a
whole and belongs to Parliament as a whole. Under section
. 13, the individual Member bringing defamation proceedings
is given power to waive for the purposes of those
proceedings "the protection of any enactment or rule of E
law which prevents proceedings in Parliament being
impeached or questioned in any court or place out of
Parliament." The section then provides by subsection (2)
that such waiver operates so that evidence, cross-
examination or submissions made relative to the particular F
M.P. are not to be excluded by reason of parliamentary
privilege. The M.P. thus having been given statutory power
to waive the protection afforded by the privilege so far as
he is concerned, the section goes on to provide that the
admission of such evidence, questioning etc., should not be
treated as infringing the privilege of either House of G
Parliament: see sub-section (2)(b ). ·
The effect of the section seems to me to be entirely
clear. It deals specifically with the circumstances raised by
8
Law Reports: (2001) I AC. 395
H
650 SUPREME COURT REPORTS [2016] 11 S.C.R.

A Mr. Hamilton's case against The Guardian. He could waive
his own protection from parliamentary privilege and in
consequence any privilege of Parliament as a whole would
fall to be regarded as not infringed. At least in part, section
13 was passed by Parliament to enable specifically Mr.
Hamilton to proceed with The Guardian action. The issues
B
in this present action against Mr. Al Fayed are for the most
part identical. It would, indeed, be very strange ifthe section
had failed to enable Mr. Hamilton to bring this action.
Mr. Beloff sought to escape this conclusion by
submitting that there are a number of parliamentary
c privileges only some of which are enjoyed by the individual
M.P. as well as by the House itself. He submitted that
amongst the privileges that belong to the House alone is its
autonomous jurisdiction over certain matters. Therefore, Mr.
Hamilton, as a former M.P., could not effectively waive
D the privileges of the House based on its autonomous
jurisdiction as opposed to other privileges. In my judgment
this argument is fallacious. The privileges of the House are
just that. They all belong to the House and not to the
individual. They exist to enable the House to perform its
functions. Thus subsection (I) of section 13 accurately
E refers, not to the privileges of the individual M.P., but to
"the protection of any enactment or rule of law" which
prevents the questioning of procedures in Parliament. The
individual M.P. enjoys the protection of Parliamentary
privilege. If he waives such protection, then under Section
F 13(2) any questioning of parliamentary proceedings (even
by challenging "findings ... made about his conduct") is
not to be treated as a breach of the privilege of Parliament."
The aforesaid case also goes to show that all parliamentary
privileges exist for the better discharge of the function of Parliament
G and belong to Parliament as a whole. In this case, but for the intervention
by Section 13 of 1996 Act, it was not possible for a Member to waive his
own protection from parliamentary privilege. Even while discussing the
effect of such waiver, House of Lords observed that all privileges belong
to the House and that they exist for the better discharge of the functions
of the House.
H
JUSTICE (RETD.) MARKANDEY KATJU v. THE LOK SABHA 651
[UDAY UMESH LAUT, J.]

28. Thus, the privilege of "freedom of speech in Parliament" is A
the privilege of Parliament in the first instance and then of its Members.
Further, going by the letter and spirit of first two Clauses of Article I 05
and the long history associated with this privilege right from Bill of Rights,
1688, anything said by Members in Parliament cannot be called in question
in Court. It is for this reason that in Tej Kirtm Jaiu (supra) this Court
8
observed, "anything said during the course of that business was immune
from proceedings in any Court." The question still remains whether the
immunity is also available to collective expression of opinion by all
Members culminating in a motion or a resolution by the House and
whether the House is also entitled to the same protection under Article
105 (2). If exercise of freedom of speech by individual Members is c
protected, whether their collective expression in the form of a motion or
resolution is also entitled to such protection. But the matter is set at rest
by Raja Ram Pal (supra). It was submitted by the Additional Solicitor
General that actions of Parliament, except when they are translated in
law, cannot be questioned in Court. The submission was recorded and
dealt with in paragraphs 394 and 395 as under:- D

"394. It is the submission of the learned Additional Solicitor
General that the proceedings in question were proceedings
which were entitled to protection under Article 105(2). In
other words, in respect of proceedings, if a Member is
offered immunity, Parliament too is offered immunity. The E
actions of Parliament, except when they are translated into
law, cannot be questioned in court.
395. We find the argument to be founded on reading of
Article 105(2) beyond its context. What is declared by the
said clause as immune from liability "to any proceedings in F
any court" is not any or every act of the legislative body or
Members thereof, but only matters "in respect of anything
said or any vote given" by the Members "in Parliament or
any committee thereof". If Article 105(2) were to be
construed so broadly, it would tend to save even the G
legislative Acts from judicial gaze, which would militate
against the constitutional provisions."
29. In the same case, this Court in para 431 summarised the
principles, the relevant for the present discussion being:-
H
652 SUPREME COURT REPORTS [2016] 11 S.C.R.

A "(g) While the area of powers, privileges and immunities of
the legislature being exceptional and extraordinary its acts,
particularly relating to exercise thereof, ought not to be tested
on the traditional parameters ofjudicial review in the same
manner as an ordinary administrative action would be tested,
and the Court would confine itself to the acknowledged
B
parameters of judicial review and within the judicially
discoverable and manageable standards, there is no
foundation to the plea that a legislative body cannot be
attributed jurisdictional error;
(h) The judicature is not prevented from scrutinising the
c validity of the action of the legislature trespassing on the
fundamental rights conferred on the citizens;
(i) The broad contention that the exercise of privileges by
legislatures cannot be decided against the touchstone of
fundamental rights or the constitutional provisions is not
D correct;
(i) If a citizen, whether a non-Member or a Member of the
legislature, complains that his fundamental rights under
Article 20 or 21 had been contravened, it is the duty of this
Court to examine the merits of the said contention, especially
E when the impugned action entails civi I consequences;
(k) There is no basis to the claim of bar of exclusive
cognizance or absolute immunity to the parliamentary
proceedings in Article 105(3) of the Constitution;"
30. We, therefore, hold the present petition to be maintainable and
F
proceed to consider the questions raised by the petitioner.
31. The first question raised by the petitioner is a time tested
question regarding the scope of fundamental right guaranteed under Article
19(1 )(a) of the Constitution to hold and express a dissenting opinion.
The scope of this article has received judicial consideration on numerous
G
occasions and the issue whether such freedom would include right to
express a dissenting opinion is also a non issue; as it is onlythe maker of
an unpopular and dissenting opinion who would need a cover or insulation.
A popular or accepted opinion, naturally would not require any protection.
In any event, Article 19(l)(a) guarantees free speech and expression
H
JUSTICE (RETD.) MARKANDEY KATJU v. THE LOK SABHA 653
[UDAY UMESH LAUT, J.]

and makes no distinction and imposes no caveats, whether such speech A
is popular or dissenting in nature. What is interesting is that the petitioner,
in fact, exercised such freedom of speech and exercised it rather
adequately. His comments and views on two famous personalities were
available for consumption in public domain. His freedom of speech in
publically expressing his views or propagating his ideas was not and is
B
not in any manne~ curtailed or impaired or placed under any restriction.
32. The submission of the petitioner however is, when Parliament
is claiming a privilege what is to be considered is whether the act in
respect of which privilege is claimed, is fundamental to the functioning
to the Parliament. It is submitted by the petitioner that the power available
with the Houses to deal with a stranger is only in relation to such act of c
that stranger which interferes with the functioning of the House and
since the remarks of the petitioner did not in any way impede or interfere
with the proceedings of Parliament, it was not within the jurisdiction of
any of the Houses to take notice of such remarks and pass the Resolutions
in question. D
33. The cases decided by this Court concerning rights of citizens,
whether Members or non-Members, as against the claim of privilege
either under Article I 05 or 194 are of two kinds. Pandit M.S.M. Sharma
v. Sltri Sri Krisltna Sin/ta and Otlters (Pandit Sltarma 1)9, Pandit
M.S.M. Sharma v. Dr. Sltree Sri Krisltna Si11lta (Pandit Sharma E
II)1°, Keslwv Sing/I case (supra), Raja Ram Pal (supra), Amarinder
Sing/I v. Special Committee, Punjab Vidltan Sabha amt Otl1ers 11
and Lokayukta, Justice Ripusudan Dayal and Others v. State ·of
Madhya Pradesh and Otlters 12 arc all cases where proceedings for
breach of privilege were initiated by the concerned Houses. Tej Kirm1
Jaill (supra) however was not concerned with any breach of privilege F
but was relating to a non-Member's action against Members. Similarly
P. V. Narasi111/1a Rao (supra) raised an issue whether a Member could
be prosecuted for having cast his vote for illegal consideration or bribe.
The earlier cases were under Clause (3) ofArticle 105 or 194 while last
two were under Clauses (I) and (2) of Article I 05. G
9
1959) Suppl I SCR 806
(
0
' (1961) I SCR 96
11
(2010) 6 sec 113
12
(2014)4 sec 473
H
654 SUPREME COURT REPORTS [2016] II S.C.R.

A 34. If any action is sought to be initiated against any citizen, whether
Member or Non-Member, either in exercise of contempt or breach of
privilege, the law that has developed is that the action of such citizen
must have interfered with fundamental functioning of the House so as to
enable the House to initiate any proceedings against the citizen. The
petitioner is right that in cases concerning breach of privilege or contempt
B
such aspect whether the actions of the citizen had interfered with the
functioning of the Houses, is crucial and fundamental. But in the present
case no action for either breach of privilege or contempt was initiated or
exercised. Chapter 20 of Lok Sabha Rules entitled Privileges and Rules
222 to 228 thereof deal with matters of privileges. Similarly Rules 187 to
c 203 ofRajya Sabha Rules deal with issues concerning privileges. If an
action for breach of privilege was initiated, the enquiry \hrnld certainly
be on the lines submitted by the petitioner, in that whether his remarks
had in any way impeded or interfered with the functioning of the Houses.
35. We are however concerned in the present case with exercise
D of power in terms of Sub-clause (1) of Atticle I 05 which guarantees
'freedom of speech in Parliament' as against the cases of the first kind
mentioned in the present case is one under Article 105 (1) and (2) of the
Constitution, without there being any layer of breach of privilege. The
question therefore is whether while exercising such power under Article
I 05( 1), is there any restriction on the scope and debate or discussion in
E Parliament and whether acts of a citizen, whether Member or Non-
Member, could not be noticed or debated. As mentioned hereinabove,
the only restriction in the Constitution as regards subject matter of any
debate or discussion is to be found in Article 121 of the Constitution. It is
axiomatic for the free functioning of Houses of Parliament or Legislatures
F of State that the representatives of people must be free to discuss and
debate any issues or questions concerning general public interest. It is
entirely left to the discretion of the Presiding Officer to permit discussion
so long as it is within the confines of Rules of Procedure.
36. We now deal with the concerned Rules and the Resolutions in
G question. Rule 156 of Rajya Sabha Rules quoted hereinabove shows
that a resolution could relate to a matter of general public interest and
under Rule 155 a resolution could be in the form of a declaration of
opinionby Rajya Sabha. Under Rule 157 certain conditions are specified,
inter alia that the resolution shall not refer to the conduct or character
of persons except in their official or public capacity. Rules 171, 172 and
H
JUSTICE (RETD.) MARKANDEY KATJU v. THE LOK SABHA 655
[UDAY UMESH LAUT, J.)

173 of Lok Sabha Rules are also on similar lines. Resolution dated] ]'h A
March, 2015 passed by Raj ya Sabha expressed "unequivocal
condemnation of the recent remarks" of the petitioner against Mahatma
Gandhi and Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose. Similarly resolution dated
12th March, 2015 passed by Lok Sabha condemns the statement of the
petitioner relating to Mahatma Gandhi and Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose.
B
The condemnation by both the Houses was of the opinion and remarks
and did not refer to the conduct or character of the petitioner. These
resolutions were purely in the form of declaration of opinion. Both the
resolutions made reference to the offices held by the petitioner as a
Judge of this Court and Chairman of the Press Council and show that
both Houses were conscious of the fact that the remarks about Mahatma c
Gandhi and Netaj i Subhash Chandra Bose were made not by an ordinary
person but by one who had occupied high public office. In the context
of such remarks from a person of the stature of the petitioner, which
were put in public domain, if both Houses thought it fit to pass resolutions
in the form of a declaration, it was certainly within their competence.
The nature of remarks regarding Mahatma Gandhi and Netaji Subhash
D
Chandra Bose pertain to general public interest and as such the Houses
were certainly within their jurisdiction to pass resolutions.
37. It is not as ifany action was deliberately undertaken or sanction
was issued against the petitioner. The petitioner in exercise of his right
under Article 19(a) made certain statements concerning two famous E
personalities. We are not for a moment suggesting that he could not or
ought not to have made those statements. He is entitled to his views and
put those views in public domain for consumption of public in general.
The response by both Houses of Parliament was also natural in that the
Resolutions in question dealt with his statements in public domain. All F
that the resolutions did was to condemn his remarks and did not refer to
the conduct or character of the petitioner. As stated earlier, the remarks
made by the petitioner regarding Mahatama Gandhi and Netaji Subhas
Chandra Bose, which were in public domain, were touching subject of
general public interest and as such could well be discussed in the Houses.
The learned Attorney General is right in submitting that the resolutions G
had no civil consequences in so far as the conduct and character of the
petitioner is concerned. Unlike all the cases referred to herein above
which visited upon the concerned individual certain civil consequences,
the present resolutions do not inflict any penalty or visit the petitioner
H
656 SUPREME COURT REPORTS [2016] 11 S.C.R.

A with any civil consequences.
38. In Yves Michaud v. Michel Bisso1111ette 13 Court of Appeal
for Province of Quebec of Canada was called upon to consider almost
identical situation. The appellant therein had made certain remarks about
Jewish Community which led the National Assembly pass following
B motion:-
"That the National Assembly uncompromisingly,
unequivocally and unanimously denounces the unacceptable
remarks about ethnic communities and, in particular, the
Jewish community, made by Yves Michaud in Montreal, on
c December 13, 2000, atthe Estates-General hearings on the
FJench language."
The appellant thereafter prayed for a declaratory judgment to
declare that the National Assembly did not have constitutional authority
to express an opinion regarding remarks made by citizens who were not
D members, unless there was breach of privileges recognized as necessary
for carrying out its legislative function. The Judge in the first instance
having rejected the prayer, the matter reached Court of Appeal. It was
observed by Court ofAppeal that the Members of the National Assembly
collectively expressed an opinion denouncing the remarks made by the
appellant. Further, the National Assembly expressed itselfin a unanimous
E resolution on a current political issue and acted within its purview. In
conclusion, it was observed that both the National Assembly and its
Members exercised the privilege of Freedom of Speech by carrying the
motion denouncing the remarks made by the appellant. In the course of
its judgment, Court ofAppeal observed in paragraphs 35 and 36 as under:-
F [35] Freedom of speech is not a privilege held only by
individual Members, as contended by the appellant. It also
protects motions carried by the National Assembly, because
they are opinions expressed collectively by its Members.
In Erskine May's Treatise on the Law, Privileges,
Proceedings and Usage of Parliament, "privilege" is defined
G
as follows:
Parliamentary privilege is the sum of the peculiar rights
enjoyed by each House collectively as a constituent part of
13
2006 QCCA 775
H
JUSTICE (RETD.) MARKANDEY KATJU v. THE LOK SABHA 657
[UDAY UMESH LAUT, J.]

the High Court of Parliament, and by Members of each A
House individually, without which they could not discharge
their function, and which exceed those possessed by other
bodies or individuals. Thus privilege, though part of the law
of the land, is to a certain extent an exemption from the
ordinary law ....... the privilege of Parliament are rights
B
which are "absolutely necessary for the due execution of
its powers" ..
[36] In Great Britain, a joint parliamentary committee
examined the privilege of free speech and section 9 of the
Bill ofRights of 1689. In its report, the committee affirmed
that freedom of speech is not a privilege held by individual c
members, but clearly the privilege of the deliberative
assembly as a whole:
.... freedom of speech is the privilege of the House
as a whole and not of the individual member in his own
right, although an individual member can asse11 and rely on D
it.
This judgment of the Court of Appeal was challenged in the
Supreme Cout1 but leave to appeal was refused on 23 .11.2006". The
view so taken by Court of Appeal in Yves Michaud v.
Mic/lei Bissonnette has since then been followed 15 • E
39. According to the petitioner, a stranger who makes a speech
outside the House, not connected with the functioning of the Parliament
and not derogatory to Parliament, could not be taken notice of by
Parliament to punish him. The power to punish a stranger, if his acts in
any way impede or interfere with functioning of Parliament, will certainly F
entitle Parliament to initiate action for breach of privilege or in contempt.
Such limitation is definitely read into the exercise of power for breach of
privilege or contempt. However, such limitation or restriction cannot be
read in every debate. A pure and simple discussion or debate may touch
upon or deal with a stranger. G
As stated above, freedom of speech in Parliament is subject only
to such of the provisions of the Constitution which relate to regulation of
procedure in Parliament. No separate law is required to confer jurisdiction
14
2006 CarsweJIQue 9859
"2015 QCCS 4798 & 2015 QCCS 883 H
658 SUPREME COURT REPORTS f20161 11 S.C.R.

A to deal with the opinions expressed by individuals and citizens during
debates. Ifthe nature of opinions expressed by such citizens or individuals
pertain to matters of general public interest, it would certainly be within
the powers of the House to have a discussion or debate concerning such
opinions. So long as the debate or discussion is within the confines of
the Rules, it will be expressly within the powers of the House to disapprove
B
such opinions. No restriction is placed by the Constitution or the Rules
of Procedure and none can be read in any of the provisions. It is true
that a citizen or an individual may find himself in a situation where he
has no way to reply to thiy discussion or a resolution passed by the
concerned House. The concerned individual or citizen may also find
c himself in a position where the resolution is passed without giving him
any opportunity of hearing. This definitely is a matter of concern and
has engaged attention of the concerned in some countries.
40. In 1984, Joint Select Committee of Common Wealth Parliament
of Australia recommended that the Houses of Federal Parliament adopt
D Standing Orders to confer what has now become known as "Citizen's
Right of Reply." This recommendation was substantially implemented
by resolutions passed by the Senate and the House of Representatives
on 25.02.1988 and 28.08.1997 respectively. As a.result, a Citizen who
has been named or identified or has been subject to clear, direct and
personal attack or criticism is entitled to have his response on merits
E published. Similarly, Section 25 of Powers, Privileges and Immunities of
Parliament and Provincial Legislatures Act 4 of 2004, enacted by the
Republic of South Africa entitles a person, other than members, who
feels aggrieved by a stateinent or remark made by a member or a witness
in or before a House or Committee about that person, to submit a written
F request to have his respo1ise recorded. The issue whether protection
similar to the one available in Australia and other jurisdictions regarding
entitlement to have a response so recorded, be extended in United
Kingdom was considered by Joint Committee of Parliamentary Privileges
in 1999. But the Joint Committee recommended that a right of reply
scheme should not be adopted in United Kingdom. It is thus a matter of
G legislative policy whether such right be conferred or not. But in the
absence of a clear provision, we cannot read any requirement of hearing.
41. These developments and instances show that on certain
occasions a citizen gets noticed or commented upon in debates or
discussions in Houses enjoying privilege of freedom of speech. In what
H
JUSTICE (RETD.) MARKANDEY KATJU v. THE LOK SABHA 659
[UDAY UMESH LAUT, J.]

manner and to what extent the citizen be protected and insulated is for A.
the concerned Houses and Li;:gislatures to decide. ··
42. Concluding so, we do not find any merit in the petition, which
is dismissed without any order as to costs.

Kalpana K. Tripathy \Vrit Petition disn1issed. B

.,