In a significant ruling, the Delhi High Court has sentenced a lawyer to four months in jail for criminal contempt. The lawyer was found guilty of making offensive remarks against judges and filing numerous baseless complaints against judicial and police officials, actions deemed to be an attempt to undermine the judiciary’s authority.
In their order, a division bench of Justice Prathiba M. Singh and Justice Amit Sharma noted that the lawyer had filed 30 to 40 complaints against judicial officers, police officers, and judges, clearly intending to scandalise the court. The court further highlighted the lawyer’s lack of remorse, stating he had neither offered an apology nor shown any inclination toward taking responsibility for his actions.
Baseless Allegations Against Judges Addressed by Court
The bench remarked that magistrates and judges had appropriately reviewed all of the lawyer’s complaints at various levels, including this court. The court emphasised that the allegations should not have been the subject of frivolous complaints, noting that such behavior was inappropriate and grossly unprofessional.
No Suspension of Sentence
During the proceedings, the lawyer sought a suspension of his sentence, requesting time to approach the Supreme Court for relief. However, the High Court declined, citing his continuous campaign to vilify the judiciary and his brazen submissions during the contempt hearings.
The court also stated that while the lawyer had previously represented himself, he could choose to have representation through the Delhi High Court Legal Services Committee, which would provide him with legal assistance if he desired.