"Complete Abuse Of The Process": SC While Dismissing PIL Seeking To Replace 'Hindutva' With 'Bharatiya Samvidhanatva' Or 'Indian Constitution'

The Supreme Court refused to entertain a PIL seeking the replacement of the term "Hindutva" with "Bharatiya Samvidhanatva," or Indian Constitution.

The Bench of Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, Justice JB Pardiwala, and Justice Manoj Misra dismissed the Writ Petition filed by one Dr. SN Kundra.

As Dr. Kundra, appearing in person, attempted to make submissions, CJI Chandrachud responded firmly, stating, "You are seeking to replace the word "Hindutva" with "Bharatiya Samvidhanatva," or Indian Constitution!" 

Dr. Kundra submitted, "I just need two minutes to make my submissions."

The CJI said, "No, sir, we will not entertain this."

"Just 1 minute, sir," the petitioner appearing in person submitted. 

The CJI further remarked that the petition was "a complete abuse of the process."

"Dismissed," the Court ordered. 

It is to be noted that the Apex Court, on earlier occasions, has also remarked that petitions are filed to abuse the process. In June 2022, the Court had held that there have been consistent efforts on the part of the petitioner to abuse the process of law as well as the process of the Court, as there has been a deliberate attempt on the part of the petitioner in the non-disclosure of relevant facts before the Court. The Bench had noted that the Bombay High Court was absolutely justified in imposing the cost of Rs. 5 lacs on the Petitioner.

Cause Title: Dr. S.N Kundra v. Union of India [W.P.(C) No. 567/2024; Diary No. 39911/2024]