The bench, comprising Justices Pratibha M Singh and Amit Sharma, criticized the lawyer’s “deplorable and derogatory language” toward judicial officers, high court judges, and the court itself.
NEW DELHI: The Delhi High Court sentenced a lawyer to four months in prison for criminal contempt, finding that his remarks “scandalised and lowered the dignity” of the judiciary.
The bench, comprising Justices Pratibha M Singh and Amit Sharma, criticized the lawyer’s “deplorable and derogatory language” toward judicial officers, high court judges, and the court itself.
The bench observed that the lawyer displayed a lack of respect for both the courts and the judicial system. It pointed out that he did not offer any apology, and his actions seemed intended to tarnish the image of the judiciary.
“The contemnor has no respect for the courts or the judicial system as a whole… He has shown no remorse, and his behavior appears aimed solely at scandalizing and defaming the courts. Such conduct, particularly from an individual qualified as an advocate, cannot go unpunished,” the court stated.
The bench noted that the lawyer showed no apology or remorse for his actions and had filed 30 to 40 complaints against judges, police officers, and other court officials.
“Considering this, the contemnor’s filing of 30 to 40 complaints against judicial officers, police officers, and judges of this court clearly indicates an intention to defame the court and undermine its dignity and authority,” the bench remarked.
Denying any suspension of the sentence, the bench highlighted the “vilification campaign” launched by the contemnor against the judiciary, as well as the “brazen nature” of his arguments in the contempt case.
Noting the lawyer’s lack of apology and respect for the judiciary, the court stated that his conduct appeared intended to malign the courts.
The court observed that the lawyer filed 30-40 complaints against judges and police officers, which it considered a deliberate attempt to “scandalise the court and undermine its dignity.” Citing the “vilification campaign” he waged against specific judges and his brazen demeanor in the contempt case, the bench declined to suspend his sentence.
The case stemmed from a suo moto contempt proceeding initiated in May after the lawyer posted contemptuous remarks in the virtual courtroom chat, allegedly to settle personal grievances. The court imposed a Rs 2000 fine and directed the police to take him into custody.
