Yes, a spouse who leaves India in violation of a specific court order or undertaking can be held in contempt by a Chennai court, since Indian courts, following well-established Supreme Court precedent, have consistently held that wilful disobedience of a court's direction — including an undertaking not to leave the country without permission — attracts contempt proceedings under the Contempt of Courts Act, 1971.

Simply leaving India without informing the other spouse, absent any specific court order restraining travel, does not by itself constitute contempt, since a spouse generally retains the right to travel unless a Look Out Circular or specific injunction has been issued restricting their movement pending the case.

Chennai Family Courts can issue a Look Out Circular or injunction restraining a party from leaving India in appropriate cases, particularly where there is a risk of the respondent evading maintenance obligations or custody arrangements, and violation of such a specific order can indeed be pursued as contempt.

Given the distinction between a general departure and violation of a specific court restraint, it is important to assess whether a formal order was in place before pursuing contempt. Reaching out via Aapka Legal Advice can help you evaluate the right remedy for your situation.

Because contempt proceedings require clear proof of a violated court order, obtaining a second opinion from a retired judge on whether your facts support this remedy can help you pursue the most effective legal option. Experienced divorce lawyers and retired judges are available through Aapka Legal Advice's Chennai divorce lawyer directory.

In conclusion, a spouse can be held in contempt by a Chennai court only if they violated a specific court order restraining their departure, and not merely for leaving India without informing the other party.