In a recent ruling, the Kerala High Court closed a criminal contempt case initiated suo motu against an advocate from the Ettumanoor Bar. The advocate was accused of disrupting court proceedings and showing disrespect to the Judicial First Class Magistrate Court in Ettumanoor.
The incident took place on February 2, 2023, when the advocate, upset over the dismissal of his bail applications, raised his voice and behaved in an ill-mannered way inside the courtroom. His actions were seen as a direct obstruction to the administration of justice and an attempt to undermine the court’s authority.
The High Court took note of the matter under the Contempt of Courts (High Court of Kerala) Rules, 1988. As per Rule 14(a), if a person admits to contempt and offers an unconditional apology, the court may consider closing the case.
The respondent advocate was directed to appear in person on July 3, 2025. On July 9, he appeared and expressed his intention to apologize unconditionally. He stated that he had been practicing at the Kottayam Bar for over 25 years and never meant to disrespect the court. He emphasized his responsibility as an officer of the court to uphold its dignity.
In an affidavit filed on July 19, 2025, the advocate expressed deep regret:
“I hereby tender an unconditional apology, and I swear that I shall uphold the sanctity and dignity of this institution all along. I do not hesitate to bow down to the authority of the court and tender an apology unconditionally with all humility and with a sense of responsibility as an officer of this court.”
A division bench comprising Justice Raja Vijayaraghavan V and Justice K.V. Jayakumar accepted the apology, noting that it was sincere and in line with the requirements of the law. The court discharged the advocate and closed the contempt case.
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This judgment highlights the importance of maintaining decorum in judicial proceedings and shows that the courts are willing to accept genuine apologies when contempt is admitted without malice. It also reinforces the role of advocates as officers of the court who are expected to respect its authority and dignity at all times.
The case was officially closed on August 18, 2025, bringing an end to the proceedings that had been ongoing since 2023.
Case Title: Suo Motu Vs. AAA
Case Number: Cont.Cas.(Crl.) No. 5 of 2023
