In Brief
A property dispute concerning Friends Colony, New Delhi escalated into contempt proceedings when the defendant repeatedly violated a court-ordered injunction and breached multiple undertakings to clear bank dues on a mortgaged property. The Single Judge directed the defendant to deposit his passport to ensure compliance and presence, particularly after he shifted to Singapore without disclosure. The Division Bench set aside this order, treating it as an impounding of passport. The Supreme Court held that directing surrender of passport is a valid measure in contempt proceedings to secure presence and compliance with Court orders. The Court confirmed the Single Judge's order and directed expeditious disposal of the underlying civil suit within nine months."
The lawyer headnote and full judgment text are available to registered users.