New Delhi, May 14 -- The Delhi High Court on Thursday said it would initiate contempt proceedings against certain respondents and individuals after "extremely defamatory content" was allegedly circulated against Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma in connection with the Delhi excise policy case.

While hearing the CBI's plea challenging the discharge of several accused persons, Justice Sharma said that she had initially intended to announce the names of amicus curiae who would assist the Court after some respondents chose not to participate in the proceedings.

"Today I was to announce names of amicus. I had made efforts, some seniors also accepted. In the meantime, it has come to my notice that extremely defamatory content is posted against me ...