Indian Polity • JudiciaryHard
With reference to the contempt jurisdiction of courts in India, which of the following statements is accurate?
A. Both the Supreme Court and High Courts derive their inherent power to punish for contempt directly from Articles 129 and 215 of the Constitution.✓ Correct Answer
B. Only Parliament has the legislative competence to enact laws regarding civil and criminal contempt, excluding state legislatures.
C. High Courts possess no constitutional authority to punish for contempt of subordinate courts functioning within their territorial jurisdiction.
D. Truth can never be pleaded as a valid defense in proceedings initiated for criminal contempt of court under statutory law.
💡 Solution & Explanation
Articles 129 and 215 declare the Supreme Court and High Courts to be courts of record with inherent powers to punish for contempt of themselves, including subordinate courts. The Contempt of Courts Act of 1971 was amended in 2006 to permit truth as a valid defense in public interest proceedings. Incorrect choices misstate constitutional vesting. Article 142 provides complete justice powers to the Supreme Court.
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