“Sir, I decline to appear in Court because it is a useless notice from you to me. It is a disrespectful act from you to me”: The response from the person alleged of contempt in the petition upon being served with the notice.
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NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court of India has issued a non-bailable warrant against a litigant for his disrespectful response to a contempt notice. This decision underscores the judiciary’s commitment to maintaining decorum and respect within the legal process.
The bench, led by Justice Ravikumar, was compelled to take this stern action after reviewing the litigant’s dismissive reply to the contempt proceedings initiated against him. The litigant’s response was both startling and unprecedented.
He stated:
“Sir, I decline to appear in Court because it is a useless notice from you to me. It is a disrespectful act from you to me.”
This blatant disregard for the court’s notice was not taken lightly.
Justice Ravikumar, expressing his disapproval of the litigant’s conduct, remarked:
“Contempt again in reply to notice also … We do not want to read it again.”
The bench’s decision to issue a non-bailable warrant was a direct consequence of the litigant’s continued disrespect and non-compliance.
The order stated:
“Despite notice of bailable warrant, the alleged contemnor has made a communication. Issue Non-Bailable Warrant to be executed through District Superintendent of Police, Balasore, Odisha, so as to ensure contemnor is present in court on February 13.”
This move by the Supreme Court sends a clear message about the seriousness with which it views contempt of court and disrespect towards the judicial process.
Lawchakra.in
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The bench was hearing a suo motu contempt of court case initiated against one Upendra Nath Dalai, a public interest litigation (PIL)-petitioner who had who failed to deposit costs of ₹1 lakh.
In September 2023, the Court issued a bailable warrant against Dalai, but he has not appeared before the Court in the matter since.
The case is set to proceed on February 13, with the litigant expected to be present in court, following the execution of the non-bailable warrant. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining respect and decorum in legal proceedings and the consequences of failing to do so.
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