What if a department does not comply with a High Court order? Read the operative directions carefully. An order to decide a representation is not the same as an order granting promotion, payment or reinstatement.

Maintain proof of service of the certified order, deadline, reminders and the department’s response. Verify whether the order is stayed or modified in appeal.

Wilful disobedience may raise a contempt issue, but contempt is not ordinarily a device to obtain new substantive relief or re-argue the merits. Depending on the order, clarification, implementation, execution or challenge to a fresh adverse decision may be more appropriate.

Documents: certified order, service acknowledgement, compliance correspondence, subsequent decision and appellate orders.

Verify the current statutory text at India Code.