In a significant judgment, the Delhi High Court sentenced a lawyer to four months’ imprisonment after finding him guilty of criminal contempt for “scandalising and lowering the dignity” of the court through derogatory remarks against judges. The court, represented by a bench of Justices Pratibha M. Singh and Amit Sharma, concluded that the lawyer’s comments amounted to contempt, citing his use of “deplorable and derogatory language” directed at judicial officers, high court judges, and the court as a whole.
The bench remarked on the lawyer’s blatant disregard for the judiciary and his attempts to malign the court system, stating, “The contemnor has no respect for the courts as also the entire judicial system itself… His entire conduct is merely an attempt to scandalise and malign the courts.” Notably, the lawyer failed to show any apology or remorse throughout the proceedings, which the court found particularly concerning.
Further, the bench observed that the lawyer had repeatedly engaged in what it described as a “vilification campaign” against various judicial figures. Court records reveal that the lawyer had filed 30 to 40 complaints against judicial officers, police officers, and judges, actions the bench interpreted as an intent to “scandalise the court” and undermine its authority. “Considering the aforesaid, the intention of the contemnor clearly shows an effort to lower the dignity and authority of the court,” the bench noted.
The court highlighted an incident from May in which a single judge had initiated a suo moto criminal contempt case against the lawyer after he posted personal and contemptuous remarks in the virtual chat box during an online hearing. According to the court, the lawyer’s comments appeared aimed at personal grievances and included scandalous accusations against high court judges and judicial officers.
The bench refused to suspend the sentence, underscoring the “brazen nature” of the lawyer’s conduct and his continued attempts to malign the judiciary. “Such conduct on behalf of the contemnor, especially someone who is qualified as an advocate, cannot be left unpunished,” the court stated.
In addition to the four-month jail term, the court imposed a fine of ₹2,000 on the lawyer. Law enforcement authorities were directed to take him into custody and ensure his imprisonment.
Sources By Agencies