Former Top Official Defies Court Order, Faces Arrest Warrant

In a dramatic turn of events, the Bombay High Court has taken strong action against former state chief secretary Sujata Saunik for her defiance of a court order. The court has issued a bailable warrant in the sum of Rs 25,000 to secure Saunik's presence on November 26th.

The case dates back to 2022 when 28 teachers filed contempt petitions citing non-compliance of the High Court's order to implement a government resolution granting two salary increments to award-winning teachers. Saunik, who was the additional chief secretary at the time, and another official were made respondents in the case.

On January 1, 2024, the High Court concluded that there was non-compliance of its earlier order. In a bid to avoid contempt proceedings, the court had asked the state's advocate to inform Saunik and the other official to tender an apology. While the other official complied, the court was shocked to note that Saunik refused to apologize, leading to the issuance of a contempt notice.

The court has now taken a stern view of Saunik's actions, stating that her refusal to accept the notice and failure to appear in court indicate "an act of defiance." With the registrar concluding that a section officer was responsible for the delay in serving the notice, the court has permitted disciplinary action against him.