Why in the News?
The Hon’ble Supreme Court has ruled that any law passed by Parliament or a State Legislature cannot be considered an act of contempt of court.
Supreme Court’s Verdict on the Issue:
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About Contempt of Court:
- Purpose: Contempt of court refers to actions or behaviors that are disrespectful to, or that obstruct or interfere with, the administration of justice by a court. It protects the authority and dignity of the judiciary from acts that obstruct or interfere with justice.
- Constitutional Basis:
- Article 129 allows the Supreme Court to punish for its own contempt.
- Article 215 grants the same power to High Courts.
- Article 19(2) permits reasonable speech restrictions for contempt cases.
- Legal Definition: The Contempt of Courts Act, 1971 defines contempt; the 2006 amendment allows truth and good faith as defences.
- Types:
- Civil Contempt is the wilful disobedience of court orders.
- Criminal Contempt involves actions that scandalise the court, interfere with proceedings, or obstruct justice.
- Punishment: Offenders may face up to 6 months imprisonment, or a ₹2,000 fine, or both.
- What Is Not Contempt: Fair reporting and genuine criticism of judgments after disposal are not considered contempt.
| [UPSC 2022] Consider the following statements:
1. Pursuant to the report of H.N. Sanyal Committee, the Contempt of Courts Act, 1971 was passed. 2. The Constitution of India empowers the Supreme Court and the High Courts to punish for contempt of themselves. 3. The Constitution of India defines Civil Contempt and Criminal Contempt. 4. In India, the Parliament is vested with the powers to make laws on Contempt of Court. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? Options: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 1, 2 and 4* (c) 3 and 4 only (d) 3 only |
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