The Madras High Court has observed that the time when people trembled at the words “contempt of court” has largely passed, while hearing a contempt petition over non-compliance with an interim order.
The case relates to Dr Senthilkumar, an Assistant Veterinary Surgeon in the Animal Husbandry Department. He was transferred from Dindigul district to Mallavadi in Tiruvannamalai district in June 2025, and within four months was shifted again to Thoothukudi district.
After he challenged the transfer, the High Court granted an interim stay. However, the authorities did not implement the order, did not allow him to join duty at the post, and also did not release his salary, prompting him to file a contempt petition.
Justice G.R. Swaminathan said the matter had been handled with undue casualness despite the department secretary being the first respondent. The judge noted that every day of non-implementation diminishes the dignity of the court, and reminded government lawyers that assisting the court is part of their duty.
The court said the officials concerned have only two options: implement the order or provide a credible explanation for non-compliance. It directed that notices be issued for the personal appearance of the current Director of Animal Husbandry, H. Krishna Unni, and his predecessor, S.P. Amrit.
