The Supreme Court (SC) on Monday has ordered arrest of Dr Govinda KC who has started his 14th fast-unto-death for dismissal of Chief Justice Gopal Parajuli.
The SC has ordered the police to arrest Dr KC and produce him before the court at nine Tuesday morning stating that through his press statement against the court's verdict, he made indecent, slanderous and contemptible remarks against the judicial system of Nepal, judiciary and justices in a way that the general public can be misled.
Many want to know what punishment Dr KC may face if he is found guilty of contempt of court in this case that was presented to the bench by the SC itself after processing a memo (tippani).
The Administration of Justice Act mentions the action against contempt of court. Clause 17(1) of the Act states that the SC can take action for contempt of court if someone obstructs delivery of justice by the SC or the courts under it, or defies the court's verdict. Dr KC can be jailed and fined if he is found guilty of contempt of court as per clause 17(4) of the Act.
Dr KC can apologize to the court after arrest. The SC can put action against him on hold if it is satisfied with the apology. Dr KC can apologize even after the court finds him guilty. The SC can order to not implement the jail sentence and fine against him if it is satisfied with the apology.
