Jammu: The Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT), Jammu Bench, has issued a strong warning to the contemnors in the case C.P./404/2025 (Jammu) in O.A./418/2024, titled Amitoz Singh Sudan vs. Ram Niwas Sharma, IAS and Others, for their continued failure to comply with the Tribunal’s directions.
Tribunal Grants Final Opportunity for Compliance
The Tribunal noted that despite granting several opportunities, the contemnors have not submitted the required compliance report. In its latest order, the Bench granted four weeks’ time as a last opportunity for the contemnors to file the compliance report.
Coercive Action if Non-Compliance Continues
The CAT made it clear that if the contemnors fail to comply within the stipulated time, they must personally appear before the Tribunal on the next date of hearing. They will also have to explain why contempt proceedings should not be initiated against them for disobeying the Tribunal’s order.
The order further states that coercive action will be taken if the contemnors continue to disregard the directions.
Background of the Case
The contempt petition arises out of an earlier order of the Tribunal in the original application (O.A./418/2024) filed by Amitoz Singh Sudan against Ram Niwas Sharma, IAS, and other respondents. The case involves issues of administrative compliance, with the Tribunal directing the authorities to act within specific timelines.
CAT’s Emphasis on Judicial Compliance
The Tribunal’s order underscores the importance of compliance with judicial directives and reflects its intent to ensure accountability among officials. Contempt proceedings are considered a serious legal recourse, often initiated when public officials or parties fail to follow court or tribunal orders.
Next Steps
The contemnors now have four weeks to submit their compliance report. The matter will be taken up on the next date of hearing, where failure to comply could result in personal appearance and possible legal consequences for the respondents.
Read also: Goa Government Appoints Retired IAS Officer Menino D’Souza as State Election Commissioner