Case Summary: In Re: Sri Justice C.S. Karnan – Contempt of Court
Background of the Case
In this unprecedented suo motu contempt proceeding, the Supreme Court took action against sitting Calcutta High Court Judge, Justice C.S. Karnan, for making public accusations against fellow judges and passing self-styled judicial orders while under restraint from exercising judicial powers.
[Judgment Source] https://www.courtkutchehry.com/Judgement/Search/AdvancedV2?docid=1200050
Law Points Raised
1. Whether a sitting High Court judge can be held liable for contempt of court.
2. Scope of Contempt of Courts Act, 1971, particularly Section 12, in judicial conduct.
3. Balance between judicial immunity and accountability.
4. Extent of media restrictions in contempt matters.
Ratio Decidendi
The Supreme Court held that Justice Karnan committed contempt of the gravest nature by scandalizing the judiciary, defying binding judicial orders,
and continuing to issue public statements and 'orders' against sitting judges and constitutional authorities.
Final Ruling
Justice C.S. Karnan was found guilty of contempt of court and sentenced to six months imprisonment. He was barred from exercising any judicial or administrative function.
Further, the Court directed media houses not to publish any of his future statements or 'orders'.
Relevant Paragraph Numbers
- Contempt charge and hearing: 1
- Finding of guilt and conviction: 2
- Sentencing and execution direction: 4
- Media publication restriction: 5
- Order conclusion: 6