The Contempt of Courts Act, 1971 is a vital procedural and constitutional law legislation enacted to define, regulate, and limit the powers of courts in punishing for contempt of court. The Act aims to uphold the authority, dignity, and proper administration of justice while ensuring that the exercise of contempt jurisdiction remains fair and balanced.
The statute classifies contempt into civil contempt and criminal contempt, and lays down the circumstances under which courts may initiate proceedings, impose punishment, or discharge contemnors. It also provides safeguards such as limitation periods and defences to prevent misuse of contempt powers.
This edition is updated as amended by the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019 (w.e.f. 31-10-2019), ensuring applicability in accordance with the current constitutional framework.
The publication is issued along with important procedural rules, including:
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Rules to Regulate Proceedings for Contempt of the Supreme Court, 1975
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The Contempt of Courts (C.A.T.) Rules, 1992
This Bare Act edition (2024) serves as an authoritative reference for advocates, judges, judicial officers, law students, and candidates preparing for judicial and competitive examinations.
Key Highlights
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Law Governing Contempt of Courts
Defines and regulates civil and criminal contempt proceedings.
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Protection of Judicial Authority
Ensures respect for courts and smooth administration of justice.
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Civil and Criminal Contempt Defined
Distinguishes between wilful disobedience and acts scandalising the court.
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Limitation and Safeguards
Prescribes limitation periods and safeguards against arbitrary use of contempt powers.
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Punishment and Defences
Provides for penalties, apology, and defences available to alleged contemnors.
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Updated with 2019 Amendment
Reflects changes introduced by the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019.
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Procedural Rules Included
Incorporates Supreme Court Contempt Rules, 1975 and C.A.T. Rules, 1992.
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Bare Act in Original Statutory Language
Presented for precise legal reference and interpretation.
Ideal for:
✔ Advocates & Constitutional / Procedural Law Practitioners
✔ Judicial Services & Competitive Exam Aspirants
✔ Judges & Judicial Officers
✔ Law Students studying Constitutional & Procedural Laws
✔ Academicians & Legal Researchers
✔ Libraries and Legal Reference Collections
