The contempt proceedings stem from a petition filed by advocate and former councillor Rukmangathan, who sought implementation of a 2021 High Court order directing the Corporation to take action against unauthorised buildings, particularly in Zone 5 (Royapuram), and across other zones of the city.

The Court had earlier expressed strong displeasure over the civic body's failure to implement its December 2021 order. In a previous hearing, a division bench comprising Chief Justice SV Gangapurwala and Justice Sundar Mohan imposed a ₹1 lakh fine on the Commissioner for non-compliance, directing that the amount be deducted from his salary and donated to the Adyar Cancer Institute.

When the matter came up for hearing again, Commissioner Kumaragurubaran appeared before the bench as directed. Representing him, Additional Advocate General J. Ravindran submitted that the delay in action was not deliberate and that the Commissioner accepted full responsibility for the lapse.

Taking note of his personal appearance and apology, the Court accepted the submission and observed that there was no wilful disobedience of its earlier order. Given the Commissioner’s expression of regret and assurance of compliance, the bench decided to revoke the penalty.

The Court’s decision underscores the significance of accountability in public administration, while also showing leniency where officials demonstrate genuine remorse and intent to rectify lapses.