This proceeding arises from Annexure A1 judgment dated 07.10.2013 in WP(C) No.24477/2013, whereby the 1st respondent was directed to finalise the proceedings on the basis of Exts.P4, P5 and P6, after giving an opportunity of hearing to the petitioners at the earliest. Subsequently, the respondent in the writ petition filed I.A.No.2713 of 2014, to extend the time. It was considered and allowed as per Annexure II order dated 04.03.2014. Still, the matter was not finalised, which amounts to an offence under the Contempt of Court Act and hence the present petition.
2. An affidavit has been filed from the part of the respondents referring to the sequence of events. It is stated that the matter has been finalised as directed by this Court, but there occurred some unfortunate delay because of various administrative reasons and procedures to be complied with. Sincere regret is expressed, tendering unconditional apology with regard to the delay involved. A copy of the order dated Cont. Case (Civil) No.1244/2014 2 29.11.2014, has been produced along with the said affidavit as AnnexureR1(a).
3. The learned counsel appearing for the petitioners submits that the disposal of the matter is not in terms of the direction given by this Court and hence the same is not correct or sustainable. It is also stated that the petitioners have already moved this Court by way of writ petition, challenging the said order.
After hearing both the sides, this Court finds that the delay involved can be condoned and it is condoned accordingly. No further steps are required to be pursued in view of the turn of events. The matter is closed without prejudice to the rights and liberties of the petitioners to pursue the concerned writ petition, wherein challenge has been raised against Ext.R1(a).
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P.R. RAMACHANDRA MENON, JUDGE.
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