Advocate General called to assist Rajasthan HC in contempt case

JAIPUR: A division bench of the high court has requested the advocate general to assist the court on the issue of contempt proceeding drawn against the Rajasthan High Court Bar Association president and secretary.A bench of Justice Bela M Trivedi in August last year had taken cognizance of criminal contempt of court against the duo and also referred the matter to the Bar Council of Rajasthan to take disciplinary action against them for hurling bad language at the judge during a strike was called by the association.Contesting the sanctity of the notices issued by the bench, senior advocate Kamlakar Sharma argued that the single judge has committed an error in issuing the notices for criminal contempt under Section 15 of the Contempt of Courts Act as neither the contemnors were "heard" which was a pre-requisite nor the advocate general who was entitled to bring a motion for criminal contempt. It was thus prayed that the notice be discharged.Considering the fact the bench observed, "A significant question of law has been raised and we are conscious that the matter is very serious and we request the advocate general of the state to address the court on Friday on this issue. Llet at copy of the pleadings be served upon him."