JUDGMENT :

S.R. Sen, J.

This contempt proceeding had to be initiated on the basis of the reports published in the "Shillong Times" dated 06.12.2018 and 10.12.2018 under the caption "When Judges judge for themselves". The contents of the news item are reproduced herein below for ready reference and perusal:

"High Court pursues retirement benefits to judges, family By Our Reporter

SHILLONG: The High Court of Meghalaya has said the government should include spouse and children of retired judges for medical treatment and other facilities.

During the hearing of the petition of Registrar General, the High Court of Meghalaya against the State Government on Wednesday, the single bench headed by Justice SR Sen said the additional advocate general filed an affidavit regarding medical facilities to retired judges.

However, the court said it appears that the benefits as per the affidavit were given only to retired judges.

"The government is directed to revise the said rule as follows:

"Retired judges spouse/children?. So, it means that they should include spouse and children for medical treatment. The Law Secretary is directed to revise the same as ordered above within a week," the order said.

Protocol