In a shocking courtroom incident, a 63-year-old retired government teacher and his lawyer allegedly threatened a woman judge inside the Dwarka court premises after being convicted in a cheque bounce case on April 2. The man, found guilty, was sentenced to 22 months in prison and fined Rs. 6.65 lakh.
After the verdict was pronounced by Judicial Magistrate First Class Shivangi Mangla, the convict erupted in rage, allegedly shouting:
“Tu hai kya cheez… ki tu bahar mil, dekhte hai kaise zinda ghar jaati hai!”
Courtroom Turns Hostile
The situation escalated quickly when both the convict and his lawyer, Atul Kumar, reportedly harassed the judge both mentally and physically. According to the judge’s formal order:
“They demanded my resignation and pressurized me to acquit the convict… They threatened to file complaints and arrange my forced resignation.”
The convict allegedly attempted to throw an object at the judge, adding to the gravity of the courtroom chaos.
Judicial Response and Legal Escalation
The judge immediately referred the matter to the Principal District and Sessions Judge, Dwarka, urging the matter to be escalated to the High Court. The judge also mentioned the case be brought to the attention of the National Commission for Women (NCW).
Lawyer Atul Kumar has been asked to show cause as to why he should not face contempt proceedings.
Convict’s Defense and Bail
The convict’s counsel pleaded for leniency, stating the man is a retired teacher surviving on pension, with three unemployed sons dependent on him.
Despite the outburst, the convict has been granted bail to allow him to challenge the judgment in a higher court.
Judicial Safety Under Spotlight
This disturbing incident highlights the growing concerns over the safety and dignity of judicial officers in India’s lower courts. The legal fraternity and women’s rights bodies are expected to closely monitor the proceedings that follow.