The Supreme Court on Monday refused to instigate criminal proceedings against the controversial artist M F Husain for allegedly hurting public sentiments with obscene paintings. The apex court also rejected the argument that the artist was using his age and status to disobey the obscenity laws.

The Supreme Court said, “There are many such pictures, paintings and sculptures and some of them are in temples also.”

The 92 year old artist has been accused by the Hindu hard liners for representing India as a nude goddess.

Obscenity has been defined as a criminal offence under the Indian laws.

Commenting on the apex court order an elated Husain said, “The Supreme Court has shown it is actually supreme... What a great gift.”

Husain had already apologized in the public for his controversial painting in 2006.