Mohd Irfan
Taking a strong stance against alleged defiance of its directives, the Additional Principal Judge Family Court in Jammu has ordered the personal appearance of the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Railways Jammu, in connection with his failure to comply with a court order. The SSP Railways has also been directed to provide an explanation as to why contempt proceedings should not be initiated against him for disregarding judicial directives.
The case pertains to an order issued on October 16, 2024, wherein the court directed the Drawing and Disbursing Officer (DDO) of Government Railway Police (GRP) Railways Jammu to produce the latest salary certificate of respondent Mehmood Riaz, a railway employee bearing belt number 966452, before the court. Despite a formal notice being served (Notice No. 333/APJFCJ dated October 21, 2024), the DDO failed to comply with the instructions.
During the hearing, the petitioner’s counsel argued that the SSP Railways Jammu, instead of furnishing the requested salary certificate, sent a letter to the court seeking a copy of the original order dated October 16, 2024. This move was deemed “contemptuous” by the court, which asserted that the SSP’s communication undermined the authority of the judiciary and constituted a deliberate attempt to obstruct justice. In its remarks, the court expressed dismay over the SSP’s conduct, terming it a blatant act of non-compliance.
The Additional Principal Judge ordered the SSP to appear in person before the court on December 26, 2024, to explain his actions. The court also reserved the right to initiate contempt proceedings if the explanation is found unsatisfactory. The petitioner’s counsel further argued that the delay in producing the salary certificate has caused undue hardship to their client, underscoring the gravity of the SSP’s actions.
The court emphasized the importance of adhering to judicial orders to uphold the rule of law and ensure the smooth functioning of justice. The next hearing on December 26, 2024, is expected to determine whether further legal action will be taken against the SSP Railways Jammu for his alleged contemptuous behavior.
