The Delhi High Court has taken contempt proceedings against an Indian woman residing in Australia due to her use of "derogatory" language directed at the judge. The court asserts that her comments are blatantly contemptuous, displaying a total disregard for the dignity of the court.

The high court has instructed the woman to personally appear before it on April 16. Additionally, the court has mandated the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) to seize her passport or visa upon her arrival in India if she chooses to come before the scheduled hearing date.

Justice Neena Bansal Krishna took suo motu contempt action against the woman for employing derogatory language against both the judge and the court. This occurred while she was logged in through virtual conferencing (VC) when her case was listed.

On January 10, during the proceedings when item no. 11 was being addressed after the assigned date, Anita Kumari Gupta, a complainant participating through video conferencing, utilized abusive language directed at the judge and the court.

"Such aforesaid derogatory remarks made by the complainant, Anita Kumari Gupta, to denigrate the court are patently contemptuous and show complete disregard to the dignity of the court, despite the fact that the counsels representing respective parties were present and had agreed to the date given, that is, April 16, 2024, for final arguments.

Justice Krishna stated, "Considering the derogatory nature of such remarks that diminish the dignity of the court, suo motu contempt proceedings have been initiated." The court has issued a show cause notice to the woman residing in Sydney, asking her to explain why she should not be subjected to punishment under the Contempt of Courts Act.

"The Foreigners Regional Registration Office, Delhi, is also directed to impound the passport or visa on the arrival of the complainant/ Anita Kumari Gupta, in case she comes to India before the date fixed for hearing, and she will not be permitted to leave the country without the direction of this court," it said.

The woman's counsel undertook to convey the court order to her.

The high court also directed the High Commission of India at Canberra in Australia to communicate this order to the woman through the Consulate General of India in Sydney.

The Contempt of Court Act of 1971 punishes the guilty with imprisonment that may extend to six months, a fine of ₹ 2,000, or both.