The Contempt of Courts Act, 1971

Section 18. Hearing of cases of criminal contempt to be by Benches

In force · As amended up to 2026-08

18. Hearing of cases of criminal contempt to be by Benches.— (1) Every case of criminal contempt under section 15 shall be heard and determined by a Bench of not less than two judges. (2) Sub-section (1) shall not apply to the Court of a Judicial Commissioner.

Source: India Code