Andhra Pradesh High Court witnessed heated exchange as bench warned advocate over indolent conduct during LOC passport case hearing. Court cautioned counsel, remarking “Call the police, file appeal,” amid arguments over adjournment.
The Andhra Pradesh High Court recently saw a heated moment in which it warned that an advocate could be sent to police custody, while observing that the lawyer had acted in an indolent manner. The episode drew broad attention after a video of the exchange went viral on social media and messaging platforms.
The incident occurred during the hearing of a writ petition challenging the issuance of a Look Out Circular (LOC) against a litigant and the seizure of his passport. At the beginning of the proceedings, the Court indicated that it was likely to adjourn the matter. It was during this stage that the Bench and the petitioner’s counsel exchanged words.
While addressing the counsel, Justice Tarlada Rajasekhar Rao showed clear displeasure and said:
“Have I decided to dismiss your writ petition? Generally what the judges will do, they will follow their own orders. Are you thinking [you] are a great Senior Advocate? Call the police. You go and file appeal,”
The advocate then responded that he was unwell and experiencing discomfort. While folding his hands in front of the Bench he pleaded to the Court:
“Sorry… I am begging for your grace, your lordships,”
Although the Court clarified that the adjournment was intended so it could obtain a copy of an earlier judgment from a similar matter, the Bench still recorded its displeasure with the counsel’s conduct, noting:
“Counsel for the petitioner has behaved indolently and same has been witnessed by counsel…,”
The Court also ordered that the presence of other advocates in the courtroom should be documented as witnesses. Later, it directed the police to take the advocate into custody for 24 hours.
As the advocate continued to seek leniency, the Court reacted sharply, saying:
“Don’t say anything counsel,”
The Bench also remarked that, if the advocate wished, he could arrange a protest or dharna along with the Bar Association against the Court’s order. However, the exact observation or action that triggered the Court’s strong response was not clearly evident from the available details.
After the High Court Bar Association intervened, the High Court reconsidered its decision and withdrew the direction to send the advocate to police custody. The case has since been adjourned and will be listed after the Court’s upcoming summer vacation.
The incident has since prompted debate within the legal community on courtroom decorum, the conduct of judicial proceedings, and how to maintain discipline while still ensuring advocates are treated fairly.
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