During the bail hearing of the accused in the Sambhal Jama Masjid violence case, a man entered the courtroom with a personal laptop. The District Government Advocate objected, citing the Evidence Act, which prohibits such use in court. In response, the judge ordered the man to leave with his laptop. The court emphasized that such incidents should not happen again.
During the bail hearings for the accused in the Sambhal violence case, tensions escalated between the prosecution and defense lawyers.
The District Government Advocate reported to the court that he had received threats from the defense counsel representing one of the accused.
The exchange became heated as Advocate Zafar Ali, head of the Jama Masjid Intazamiya Committee, defended his client.
He argued that his client was wrongfully implicated, asserting that he was present at the scene during the incident and that stones were thrown in self-defense. The prosecution countered, stating that Zafar Ali was unable to argue effectively because the administration considered him suspicious and had confiscated his mobile phone.
The District Government Advocate claimed that Zafar Ali threatened him outside of court, saying he would “deal with him later.” After this, Zafar Ali left with a crowd that had gathered outside. The advocate brought the incident to the judge’s attention, but Zafar Ali denied making any threats.
Additionally, during the bail hearing, a man entered the courtroom with a laptop, which led to objections from the District Government Advocate. He pointed out that personal laptops are not permitted in court under the Evidence Act. The judge subsequently ordered the man to leave with his laptop.
Traditionally, the use of electronic devices such as laptops, tablets, and mobile phones in courtrooms was restricted to maintain decorum and prevent disruptions. However, with the advancement of technology and its integration into legal practice, there has been a shift towards permitting these devices under certain conditions.
If a judge objects to the use of a laptop or any electronic device in the courtroom, the individual may be asked to refrain from using it or to remove the device. Non-compliance with the judge’s instructions could lead to contempt of court proceedings, as the judiciary has the authority to maintain order and decorum within the courtroom.