NATIONAL: SC Issues Contempt Notices to Six States Over Judges’ Welfare Non-Compliance
Top Court Cracks the Whip on State Inaction
The Supreme Court of India, in a stern response to non-compliance with its directives, issued contempt notices on Wednesday to the chief secretaries of six states for failing to implement welfare measures for retired High Court judges. The affected states include Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Maharashtra, Telangana, West Bengal, and Delhi.
A bench comprising Justice Abhay S. Oka and Justice Ujjal Bhuyan observed that these states have not fully complied with the court’s orders issued on February 18, 2024, concerning post-retirement benefits, including medical facilities and allowances.
Legal Accountability Invoked
The bench directed that notices be sent under the Contempt of Courts Act, asking the Chief Secretaries to explain why legal action should not be initiated against them. The judges emphasized the importance of adhering to judicial directives, especially those concerning the dignity and welfare of former members of the judiciary.
“These six states have not complied with the orders issued by us in full. Issue notices to the Chief Secretaries of the respective states asking them why action should not be taken,” the bench stated.
Next Hearing Scheduled for July 25
The Court has listed the matter for its next hearing on July 25, 2025. While temporarily exempting the Chief Secretaries from personal appearance, the Court mandated that a responsible IAS officer must represent each state either physically or virtually at the hearing.
This measured yet firm directive ensures state accountability without unnecessarily disrupting administrative operations.
Background: Petition by Retired Judge
The action by the apex court follows a petition filed by Justice (Retd.) V.S. Dave, who serves as the President of the Association of Retired Judges of the Supreme Court and High Courts. The petition highlighted systemic delays and failures in extending basic post-retirement entitlements to former judges, prompting judicial intervention.
States Under Scrutiny
The following states have been served contempt notices:
| State | Reason for Contempt Notice |
|---|---|
| Chhattisgarh | Non-compliance with February order |
| Jharkhand | Failure to implement benefits |
| Maharashtra | Incomplete provision of allowances |
| Telangana | Delay in medical facility provisions |
| West Bengal | Administrative non-compliance |
| Delhi | Partial execution of directives |