As per case facts, a cooperative housing society's application for adjudication of dues was rejected by authorities who wrongly believed a High Court stay order had expired after six months, ... despite the order clearly stating its continuation until a revision application was finally decided. This led to the issuance of a suo motu contempt notice against the officials for apparent disobedience of a judicial directive. The question arose whether the authorities were justified in their erroneous interpretation of the High Court's unambiguous stay order and if their conduct amounted to contempt. Finally, the Court found the authorities' interpretation incorrect and contrary to its explicit order. While accepting their unconditional apology, the Court deemed their conduct serious negligence and a disregard for judicial authority. It quashed the impugned orders, restored the society's application for fresh consideration, and issued a formal censure to the defaulting officials.