Sri Zaheer Ahmed v. Sri K Anwar Basha
Case brief
What is this about?
Four contempt petitions were filed by Junior Training Officers alleging wilful disobedience of High Court orders directing the Karnataka State Board of Wakf and related authorities to grant pay scale, allowances and benefits on par with similarly placed officers. After protracted litigation including dismissed SLPs and review petitions, the respondents issued demand drafts in March 2026 for amounts calculated on the basis of parity. The court found the delay inexcusable but held that the compliance, though belated, showed no wilful disobedience warranting contempt punishment. The contempt petitions were disposed of with directions to pay the calculated amounts within 15 days along with 9% per annum interest from the expiry of nine months after 12.07.2021 until actual payment.
What did the court decide?
Accused shall pay the amount calculated in terms of the affidavit dated 26.02.2026/27.02.2026 within 15 days from receipt of the order along with interest @ 9% per annum from the date of expiry of nine months from 12.07.2021 till actual date of payment to each complainant. Notice of contempt discharged.