Chief Justice of India Surya Kant on Monday expressed grave concern over an alleged incident of violence inside a courtroom at Delhi’s Tis Hazari court complex, observing that such “Gunda Raj” is completely unacceptable and reflective of a breakdown in the rule of law.
The remarks came after an advocate sought urgent intervention from the Supreme Court, claiming he was physically attacked by another lawyer accompanied by “many goons” while appearing in the courtroom of Additional District Judge Harjit Singh Pal on February 7.
The lawyer mentioned his plea before a bench comprising CJI Surya Kant, Justice Joymalya Bagchi, and Justice N V Anjaria. Narrating the incident, he stated:
“I was appearing before the Tis Hazari court in a court of ADJ Harjit Singh Pal. I was appearing on behalf of the accused. The complainant’s advocate, with many goons, attacked me…They hit me, and the judge was sitting right there. All members of the court were there.”
Reacting strongly, CJI Surya Kant asked whether the incident had been brought to the attention of the Chief Justice of the Delhi High Court.
“Have you informed this to the Delhi High Court Chief Justice? Write a letter to the Chief Justice and mark that to me as well. Let the High Court Chief Justice take cognisance. Action will be on the administrative side,” the CJI said.
He further added:
“This kind of ‘Gunda Raj’ is not acceptable to us. This means the failure of the rule of law. Do this and tell me.”
The Supreme Court bench directed the concerned advocate to move the jurisdictional High Court for appropriate redressal.
The incident has raised serious questions about security, decorum, and functioning in lower courts, particularly when violence allegedly occurs in the presence of a presiding judge. CJI Surya Kant’s strong remarks are expected to trigger administrative inquiry or action from the Delhi High Court.
The Supreme Court’s response underscores the judiciary’s growing emphasis on ensuring that courtrooms remain safe spaces for lawyers and litigants, free from intimidation or mob tactics.
