Altaf says 'bowed down to avert a clash'

LONDON: Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) Chief Altaf Hussain Monday said there was no harm in bowing down to forestall a clash, hours after the Supreme Court accepted his unconditional apology in the contempt case.

"There is an honour in being modest, since God dislikes being arrogant and likes being down-to-earth," he said in a telephonic conversation with members of MQM Rabitta Committee, senators, MNAs and lawyers.

Altaf Hussain said he wholeheartedly respected the judiciary and other institutions. "There is no loss in bowing down to ward off a confrontation and clash," he added.

He complained that a wrong perception is projected about him, although 'we believe in sorting out the matters through understanding'.

The Supreme Court had issued a contempt of court notice to Altaf Hussain on December 14 stating that he had used objectionable language against the judiciary while addressing a public gathering. The MQM chief had been summoned to appear before the apex court on January 7 to explain his remarks.