The Gujarat High Court on Monday initiated suo motu contempt of court proceedings against a senior advocate who was allegedly seen consuming beer during a virtual hearing. A video clip purportedly shows the lawyer sipping from a mug while appearing before Justice Sandeep Bhatt on June 26.
The Division Bench of Justices A.S. Supehia and R.T. Vachhani, while taking note of the incident, described the conduct as “outrageous” and barred the lawyer from appearing before them via virtual mode until further orders. The bench also observed that such behaviour undermines the dignity of the legal institution and tarnishes the image of the judiciary.
“Till further orders are passed, we restrict the appearance of the concerned advocate to appear through virtual mode before this bench,” the order stated, adding that the Registry shall inform the Chief Justice about the matter for possible circulation of the order to other benches.
The Court further remarked that the act goes beyond the limits of professional misconduct and affects the foundational values of the institution:
“Thus, the indecent act has very wide ramifications as it has travelled beyond the precincts of this prestigious institution. If the act which dents the glory and dignity of the institution is disregarded, it will be destructive to the rule of law and the institution will collapse.”
The bench also raised concerns over the impact of such behaviour on younger members of the Bar, who often view senior advocates as mentors and role models:
“Such an act indubitably affects the young lawyer as the Bar takes the senior counsel as the role model and mentors. The demeanour indubitably defiles the privilege of senior counsel conferred upon him by this Court.”
In view of the gravity of the matter, the High Court ordered the Registry to register a suo motu contempt case. The Court has also indicated that the lawyer’s designation as Senior Advocate will be reconsidered.
The Registry has been directed to preserve the video, issue notice, and submit a report before the Court by the next date of hearing. The matter will be listed again after two weeks.
