Jahanvi Agarwal
The Delhi High Court has found a man guilty of criminal contempt and sentenced him to remain in court for the entire day as part of his punishment. Alongside this, the court also imposed a fine of Rs.1 lakh on Pradeep Aggarwal.
A Division Bench comprising Justices Prathiba M Singh and Amit Sharma condemned Aggarwal’s actions, noting that his behavior exhibited “utter disregard and abuse of the Court’s process,” which could not be overlooked.
Aggarwal was convicted for soliciting money from the owner of a purportedly illegal construction. He had filed a petition against the construction and demanded money to withdraw the plea. Further investigation revealed that he intended to drive down the property’s price because he wanted to purchase it himself.
“The law on contempt serves to protect the authority and dignity of the Court against acts that grossly disrespect or impede its functioning,” the Court stated. They further noted that Aggarwal’s actions in filing the writ petition for personal gain were a clear attempt to misuse the judicial system for his benefit. “Such acts not only challenge the authority of the Court but also undermine public confidence in the fairness and impartiality of the judicial process,” the Court added.
Despite acknowledging Aggarwal’s apology and his display of remorse, the Bench decided on a relatively lenient punishment but still imposed a hefty fine. The Court ruled that Aggarwal would have to “remain in the Court till the rising of the Court today” and also pay Rs.1 lakh to the Delhi High Court Legal Service Committee.
Case Name: Court on its own motion v. Pradeep Aggarwal
Dairy Number: 1/2023
Bench: Justices Prathiba M Singh and Amit Sharma