The Supreme Court fined Samay Raina and four others ₹3 lakh each after finding that its earlier directions in a case concerning insensitive remarks about persons with disabilities were not properly followed. Hearing a petition filed by the Cure SMA India Foundation, the apex court expressed dissatisfaction over the alleged failure to involve special-abled persons in fundraising events as directed earlier. The Bench also warned that continued non-compliance could attract much heavier financial penalties.
Supreme Court fines Samay Raina after alleged breach of earlier directions
The Bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V. Mohana observed that the directions issued in November last year had not been fully implemented. According to the petitioner, Samay Raina did not invite persons with disabilities to participate in his programmes despite a clear court direction.
While hearing the matter, the Supreme Court fined Samay Raina after noting that there appeared to be a serious lapse in complying with its earlier orders. The court reportedly observed that it had reason to believe its directions had been ignored and imposed costs of ₹3 lakh each on Raina and four others, directing them to deposit the amount within two weeks.
Also Read | ‘Arey rahne do, bacchey aise kayi bar…’: CJI Surya Kant responds to Supreme Court outburst
Disability rights remain at the centre of the legal battle
According to the Hindustan Times, the petition, filed by Cure SMA India Foundation, concerns remarks allegedly made during one of Raina’s online comedy shows regarding the cost of treatment for Spinal Muscular Atrophy and comments that were claimed to have ridiculed a person with the condition. The organisation has sought stronger safeguards against online content that it believes undermines the dignity and rights of persons with disabilities.
During the proceedings, Raina’s legal team informed the court that around ₹9 lakh had been raised through shows for disabled persons. However, the petitioner’s counsel argued that financial contributions alone could not replace meaningful inclusion. The Supreme Court fined Samay Raina while emphasising that dignity and participation of persons with disabilities were central to its earlier directions.
Also Read | ‘Best ones were never the loudest’: Bear Grylls remembers PM Modi adventure, praises his leadership
Court warns of stricter action for future violations
According to the Hindustan Times, the Bench directed all concerned to fully comply with the previous orders requiring regular fundraising programmes that actively involve persons. It also cautioned that future failure to follow its directions could lead to significantly higher penalties.
Supreme Court fines Samay Raina in a case that has once again highlighted the balance between freedom of expression and the responsibility to uphold the dignity of vulnerable communities. The matter is expected to be monitored further to ensure compliance with the court’s directions.
