Topics Covered: Separation of powers between various organs dispute redressal mechanisms and institutions.
Centre moves SC against Delhi HC’s contempt notice over oxygen supply:
Context:
The Supreme Court has agreed to hear a plea of the Centre against Delhi High Court’s order issuing contempt notice and seeking personal appearance of its officials for non-compliance of the direction on supply of oxygen to treat COVID-19 patients in the national capital.
What’s the issue?
The Delhi High Court had directed the Centre to show cause as to why contempt should not be initiated against it for failing to comply with its order on the supply of oxygen to Delhi for treating COVID-19 patients.
Contempt of court can be of two kinds:
Civil, that is the willful disobedience of a court order or judgment or willful breach of an undertaking given to a court.
Criminal, that is written or spoken words or any act that scandalises the court or lowers its authority or prejudices or interferes with the due course of a judicial proceeding or interferes/obstructs the administration of justice.
Relevant provisions:
- Article 129 and 215 of the Constitution of India empowers the Supreme Court and High Court respectively to punish people for their respective contempt.
- Section 10 of The Contempt of Courts Act of 1971 defines the power of the High Court to punish contempts of its subordinate courts.
- The Constitution also includes contempt of court as a reasonable restriction to the freedom of speech and expression under Article 19, along with elements like public order and defamation.
InstaLinks:
Prelims Link:
- Powers of SC vs HCs wrt Contempt cases.
- Constitutional provisions in this regard.
- Changes brought about by Contempt of Courts (Amendment) Act, 2006.
- Civil vs Criminal contempt.
- Rights under Article 19.
- Section 10 of The Contempt of Courts Act of 1971 is related to?
Mains Link:
Discuss how contempt cases are handled by Supreme Court in India.
Sources: the Hindu.
