The Supreme Court has ruled that a High Court does not lose its contempt jurisdiction merely because its original judgment has been affirmed by the Supreme Court. The Court clarified that the doctrine of merger does not extinguish a High Court’s power to act against violations of its directions.

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• Supreme Court held High Courts retain contempt jurisdiction even after SC affirms their order.

• Doctrine of merger does not bar High Court from initiating contempt proceedings.

• Contempt jurisdiction independent of whether original judgment merged with SC order.

• High Courts can examine alleged violations of their earlier directions.

• Ruling reinforces constitutional authority of High Courts.

• Bench clarified distinction between appellate affirmation and contempt powers.

• Judgment strengthens enforcement mechanism of judicial orders.

• Ensures litigants cannot escape compliance citing merger doctrine.

• Decision upholds accountability for disobedience of court directions.

• Ruling expected to guide future contempt petitions across High Courts.