Delhi HC warns lawyers of tough action if contempt charge proved

The Delhi High Court made it clear to the accused lawyers, facing criminal contempt charges for allegedly slapping a trial court judge, that if the charges are proved then it would take tough action against them.

The Delhi High Court on Friday made it clear to the accused lawyers, facing criminal contempt charges for allegedly slapping a trial court judge, that if the charges are proved then it would take tough action against them.

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A special bench comprising Justice Mukul Mudgal, Justice MB Lokur and Justice Vikramjit Sen said "one thing we make it clear: if contempt of court is committed then it is time to take tough action".

"You cannot take the law in your hands," said the bench to senior advocate KTS Tulsi who appeared for the accused lawyeRs

The court's remarks came while hearing an application filed by the lawyers seeking dropping of contempt proceedings against them.

Tulsi contended the trial judge has not behaved in a proper manner with the counsel.

He said the trial judge has already registered a FIR and this was concealed from the fact-finding committee set up by the Delhi Bar Council.

"Section 10 of the Contempt of Courts act says that FIR and contempt proceedings for the same incident could not go together," said Tulsi.

Meanwhile, the Bench also decided to appoint an amicus curiae to assist the court in this matter. However, the names are yet to be finalised.