The Oudh Bar Association, representing lawyers at the Allahabad High Court at Lucknow, has formally requested the transfer of Justice Sangeeta Chandra following several incidents of alleged mistreatment of its members. The request was made in a letter sent to Chief Justice Arun Bhansali on Saturday, highlighting concerns over the judge’s behavior during court sessions.
The letter, penned by the Association’s General Secretary Advocate Manoj Kumar Dwivedi, cites an incident involving a heated exchange between Justice Chandra and senior advocate Satish Chandra Mishra during a session on Friday. This altercation escalated when Justice Chandra initiated criminal contempt proceedings against Mishra for what was perceived as disrespect towards the bench.
According to the letter, “Hon’ble Justice Sangeeta Chandra went against the dignity of her office by issuing an order initiating criminal contempt of court proceedings against Senior Advocate SC Mishra.” The document further mentions that even Senior Advocate JN Mathur, representing the respondents, intervened, requesting Justice Chandra to reconsider her decision. However, his appeals were declined.
The dispute stems from a hearing before a bench, which also included Justice Brij Raj Singh, where Mishra reportedly shouted at the judges after they refused to grant an interim order favoring his client. The bench responded by referring the matter to the Chief Justice for potential contempt proceedings.
The Oudh Bar Association has expressed its concern over what it describes as “verbal inhumane treatment” of its members, fearing such incidents undermine the mutual respect necessary between the bench and the bar. The call for Justice Chandra’s transfer is seen as a plea to uphold the integrity and decorum of the courtroom.
