The Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) tendered an unconditional apology to Chief Justice of India Surya Kant after an unauthorized post demanding the top judge's resignation appeared on the state unit's official X account.
The formal apology came in response to a legal notice served by Supreme Court advocate Meneesh Dubey, as reported by The Hindu. KPCC president Sunny Joseph confirmed that the post had been published by Vijay Thottathil without any authorization, consultation, or clearance from the party leadership.
Disciplinary Measures and Retraction
Addressing the legal notice, Joseph clarified that the party leadership never sanctioned any statement seeking the Chief Justice's resignation or hinting at finding a replacement. The organization took immediate internal measures to distance itself from the remarks.
"Neither I nor the leadership had authorised him to demand the resignation of the Hon’ble Chief Justice or to suggest that the organisation would find a replacement," Joseph stated. He confirmed that Thottathil had been stripped of his position immediately and directed to issue an individual public apology, distinct from the official apology tendered by the committee.
Condemning the tone of the publication, the leadership noted that the language was inappropriate and fundamentally contrary to party doctrine. The organization affirmed its complete commitment to constitutional principles and judicial independence, clarifying that the post did not reflect the considered view or official stance of either the KPCC or the wider Indian National Congress.
Congress State Unit — verified documentary press visual.
Digital Protocol Review and Evidence Retention
Following the withdrawal of the post, the state unit launched an inquiry into its digital communications machinery. Party officials stated that the lapse highlighted a need for stricter safeguards surrounding account access and publication clearances.
According to party statements documented by The Hindu's Kerala Bureau, the examination covers the complete lifecycle of the communication, including initial drafting, device identifiers, and clearance protocols. The leadership confirmed that all relevant electronic data, server access logs, and internal correspondence will be preserved. Joseph stressed that while digital operations involve outside professional vendors, overall accountability and editorial oversight remain an internal responsibility.
| Phase | Action Item | Status / Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Immediate Action | Retraction & Apology | Statements withdrawn; unconditional apology tendered to CJI |
| Personnel Measure | Removal of Operator | Official removed from duties; individual apology mandated |
| Operational Review | Account Access Audit | Review of drafting logs, authorization protocols, and device access |
| Institutional Oversight | External Agency Check | Establishing oversight rules for third-party digital contractors |
