Authority: Supreme Court of India (Inherent Jurisdiction)
Order Date: 07 September 2026
Case Overview
- Petitioners: six entities – M/S. LOPO ENTERPRISE ANINI, M/S. M.P. ENTERPRISE, M/S. R. TINGKATRA, M/S. C.C.N. TRADERS, M/S. MEGA GENERAL STORE, and M/S. MAA KALI TRADERS.
- Respondents: MANISH KUMAR GUPTA (Chief Secretary, Government of Arunachal Pradesh), OPAK GAO (Secretary, Food & Civil Supplies Department, Government of Arunachal Pradesh), and WAYONG KHIMHUM (Director, Food & Civil Supplies Department, Government of Arunachal Pradesh).
- The petitioners alleged contempt of court, contending that the Department of Food & Civil Supplies failed to dispose of their representations within the six‑week period mandated by the Supreme Court’s earlier direction.
- Additional Solicitor General Mr. Vikramjit Banerjee filed an affidavit stating that the representations were disposed of by speaking orders dated 28‑08‑2026, but admitted the statutory time‑limit was not met and offered an unconditional apology.
- Petitioners argued the affidavit was served on 05‑09‑2026, seeking additional time to file a rejoinder.
Observations & Reasoning
- The Court observed that, although the six‑week deadline was not strictly adhered to, the Department did issue orders on 28‑08‑2026, and an apology was tendered.
- The Court emphasized that contempt proceedings are essentially between the contemnor and the Court; third parties (including petitioners) may only bring non‑compliance to the Court’s notice.
- Given the apology and the fact that the representation was eventually considered, the Court found no sufficient basis to continue contempt proceedings.
Final Outcome
- The contempt petitions are hereby disposed of.
- The petitioners retain the right to challenge the Department’s orders dated 28‑08‑2026 before an appropriate forum, in accordance with law.
- Any pending applications, if any, are also disposed of.
Topics: Contempt Law, Administrative Delay