AP HC: Correctness of Order Cannot Be Re-Examined in Contempt Proceedings

The Andhra Pradesh High Court ruled that contempt proceedings cannot be used to question the legality, correctness, or propriety of an earlier judicial order. The issue concerned officials refusing to release a seized vehicle despite a court direction. The Court criticized the authorities for disobedience, imposed fine, and reiterated that if an order seems incorrect, the appropriate remedy is appeal or review—not defiance. This ruling underscores the purpose of contempt jurisdiction: enforcing compliance, not re-litigating issues. It reinforces the authority of the judiciary and ensures accountability among administrative officials who ignore binding directions.