Orissa High Court Issues Contempt Notice to Utkal University VC Over Non‑Compliance
Bhubaneswar, Feb 11: The Orissa High Court has issued a contempt of court notice to the Vice‑Chancellor of Utkal University for failing to comply with its earlier directive regarding the promotion and arrears of a former senior assistant.
The division bench, led by Justice Dikshita Krishna Sripada, directed police authorities to serve the notice and submit a compliance report. The next hearing is scheduled for February 20, 2026.
The court reminded that non‑compliance with judicial orders constitutes a punishable offence under the Contempt of Courts Act, 1971 and Article 215 of the Constitution, which may result in imprisonment and mandatory personal appearance.
The case stems from an October 2025 order directing Utkal University to grant promotion and arrears with 12% annual interest to petitioner Murali Dhar Swain.
Alleged non‑implementation of this order prompted the contempt petition.
This development underscores the judiciary’s firm stance on enforcing compliance and accountability within public institutions.