The Delhi High Court has dismissed a plea seeking a reduction in the sentence of an advocate who used abusive language against a woman judicial officer during court proceedings. The incident took place in October 2015 at Karkardooma Courts, where the lawyer stormed into a courtroom and hurled insults at the judge after his client’s challan matter was adjourned. A city court had earlier sentenced him to 18 months for insulting the modesty of a woman under IPC Section 509, and three months each under Sections 189 (threatening a public servant) and 353 (assault to deter a public servant), with all sentences to run consecutively, totaling two years.

Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma, who heard the appeal, upheld the lower court’s verdict, stating that the case went beyond individual misconduct and posed a serious threat to the dignity of the judiciary. She emphasized that such actions undermine the integrity of judicial institutions and highlighted the vulnerability faced by women in positions of power. The judge noted that when a male advocate uses his position to demean a female judge, it reflects a deeper, systemic issue and a failure to respect authority and gender dignity within the legal framework.

The presiding officer had submitted a written complaint stating that the advocate not only insulted her but also outraged her modesty and insulted the court’s decorum. Based on her complaint, an FIR was registered under several sections of the IPC, including Section 354. The High Court’s decision sends a strong message that the legal system will not tolerate gender-based misconduct, especially against those entrusted with delivering justice. The judgment reinforces the need to protect public servants and maintain respect within courtrooms, particularly towards women in authoritative roles.