SC showcause notice to Maharashtra Assembly official on Arnab Goswami

The Supreme Court on Friday issued a showcause notice to the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly assistant secretary asking him to explain in two weeks why contempt proceedings should not be initiated against him for his letter to journalist Arnab Goswami purportedly cautioning him against disclosing a House notice to the top court.

The apex court, which also granted protection from arrest to the Republic TV editor-in-chief in the Maharashtra Assembly breach of privilege motion case, took strong note of the October 13 letter of Assembly assistant secretary Vilas Athawale and said he had prima facie committed contempt.