N.Sreenivasulu v. Sri D.S.Lokesh Kumar, I.A.S.,

THE HON'BLE SRI JUSTICE RAMESH RANGANATHAN CONTEMPT CASE NO.2087 OF 2013 ORDER:

The order, violation of which is alleged in this Contempt Case, is the order passed by this Court in W.P. No.1703 of 2013 dated 29.01.2013 whereby the District Collector, Anantapur was directed to cause an enquiry into the alleged bogus pattas issued earlier, and other irregularities committed, in respect of the said land; and take action, in accordance with law, on the basis of the report within a period of three months from the date of receipt of a copy of the order.

From the additional counter-affidavit filed by the 1st respondent, it does appear that pursuant to an enquiry caused in this regard, it was found that 78 pattas were granted earlier to those who were ineligible; and, by proceedings dated 12.01.2014, all the 78 pattas granted to ineligible persons, were cancelled. While there appears to be some delay in compliance with the order of this Court, the delay is sought to be explained on the grounds of panchayat elections, Samaikya Andhra agitation etc. While there is a violation of the order passed by this Court, it does not appear to be wilful and deliberate. As the order of this Court has been complied with, and action has been taken to weed out ineligible persons who were granted bogus pattas earlier, I see no reason to proceed against the respondent under the Contempt of Courts Act. The Contempt Case is closed. The miscellaneous petitions pending, if any, shall also stand closed. No costs.

______________________________ RAMESH RANGANATHAN, J Date: 11.12.2015.

MRKR