The Bombay High Court has issued a bailable warrant of Rs 25,000 against Sujata Saunik, former Additional Chief Secretary of Maharashtra, in ongoing contempt proceedings. The case relates to her alleged failure to implement a court-directed government decision.
Court Orders and Warrant Details
The warrant, issued by a bench comprising Justices Ravindra V Ghuge and Ashwin D Bhobe, directs Saunik to appear before the court on November 26, 2025. The bench noted Saunik’s refusal to accept notices and obstruction of a bailiff attempting to serve the court notice, highlighting what the court described as an attitude of defiance.
Background of Contempt Proceedings
The contempt case stems from a Writ Court order dated November 27, 2020, upheld by the Supreme Court, which directed the Maharashtra government to grant double salary increments to award-winning educators. The petitions were filed in 2022 by Ram Arjunrao Shete, Anil Vasantrao Palande, and other teachers, citing the state’s failure to implement the order.
Previously, the High Court had criticised Saunik for attempting to have a subordinate officer tender an apology on her behalf, which was seen as a disregard for judicial authority.
Administrative Lapses Highlighted
The bench also addressed the delayed issuance of the contempt notice, which was processed only after Saunik’s retirement on June 30, 2025. An internal inquiry identified Section Officer Aditya P Satghare as responsible for the lapse, and the court permitted the Registrar to initiate disciplinary action against him.
The matter is scheduled for further hearing on November 26, 2025, when Saunik is expected to respond to the contempt proceedings.
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