Section 9 of COC, 1971 : Section 9: Act Not To Imply Enlargement Of Scope Of Contempt

Explanation using Example

Imagine a journalist writes an article criticizing a court's decision. Although the article is harsh, it does not cross the line into what has traditionally been considered contempt of court, such as scandalizing the court or interfering with judicial proceedings. Under Section 9 of The Contempt of Courts Act, 1971, the journalist cannot be held in contempt just because the Act exists; the action must independently qualify as contempt based on existing legal principles. So, if the journalist's critique doesn't amount to contempt under the usual legal standards, they cannot be punished for contempt under this Act.