Is it obligatory to seek absolution from the scholars of the Dar al-Ifta and from those who were backbitten, for the listener who denounced it in his heart but did not leave the gathering of backbiting?

Listening to backbiting is forbidden. Whoever hears it must stop it, or leave the gathering if they cannot object verbally. Alternatively, they should occupy themselves with dhikr (remembrance of Allah) or contemplate another matter to divert themselves from listening. Listening without paying attention, if it is impossible to leave the gathering, does not harm them.