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No contempt if Parliament or legislatures make laws

Background of the Case

  • Petitioners: Nandini Sundar (sociologist) and others filed a contempt petition (2012).
  • Target: Chhattisgarh government’s alleged non-compliance with the SC’s 2011 order.
  • The SC in 2011 had directed the State to disband vigilante groups (like Salwa Judum) and stop arming tribals as Special Police Officers (SPOs).

Relevance : GS 2(Polity , Judiciary)

Petitioners’ Allegations

  • The State bypassed the SC’s directions by:
    • Enacting Chhattisgarh Auxiliary Armed Police Force Act, 2011 — legalising SPOs.
    • Not vacating schools/ashrams occupied by security forces.
    • Failing to compensate victims affected by Salwa Judum and SPO actions.

Supreme Court’s Ruling (May 15, 2024)

  • Law made by legislature ≠ contempt of court.
  • Legislatures have plenary powers to make laws.
  • Unless a law is declared unconstitutional, it remains valid and cannot be equated with defiance of court orders.
  • Contempt plea dismissed.

Key Judicial Observations

  • Balance of powers must be maintained between judiciary and legislature.
  • A law passed post-court order is not contempt unless:
    • It directly disobeys the order.
    • It is declared ultra vires the Constitution.
  • Remedy against an unconstitutional law lies in challenging it in a constitutional court, not through contempt proceedings.

Broader Concerns & Directions

  • Recognised the prolonged unrest in Chhattisgarh due to Maoist violence.
  • Urged specificpeace and rehabilitation measures by:
    • State government
    • Union government
  • Cited Article 315: Responsibility lies with both governments to ensure law and order and welfare of residents.

Legal and Constitutional Significance

  • Reiterates legislative supremacy in its domain unless judicially struck down.
  • Clarifies that legislative action isn’t inherently contemptuous of earlier court orders.
  • Strengthens separation of powers and checks and balances in governance.

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