Viral Video: Jharkhand High Court Judge and Lawyer Clash Leads to Contempt Case

A screengrab of the court proceeding that was live streamed

Ranchi:

A contentious confrontation between a Jharkhand High Court judge and an attorney on Thursday has resulted in a criminal contempt case filed against the lawyer. The live-streamed proceedings captured the tense exchange between lawyer Mahesh Tiwari and Justice Rajesh Kumar.

The incident began when a legal representative sought relief for his client, a widow whose electricity connection was severed due to outstanding dues of Rs 1.30 lakh.

Justice Kumar responded that the lawyer's approach to seeking relief was inappropriate and proceeded to explain the proper procedure according to court protocol.

"What kind of argument is this? Are we perpetrating injustice? If I dismissed your case, then injustice has been done? Is this your argument?" Justice Kumar remarked, suggesting that the Bar Council chairperson should take note of the lawyer's behavior and the contemptuous manner of argumentation.

At this point, another attorney, Tiwari, who had been standing at the back, intervened in the discussion. He moved forward, raised his hand, and gestured toward the high court judge.

"I can present my arguments in my own style, not as you dictate. Please be mindful... Don't attempt to humiliate any advocate, I'm warning you," the lawyer declared.

"You cannot accuse the court of committing injustice," the judge retorted.

"Did I make that statement?" the lawyer responded, urging the judge to review the live video recording, suggesting it was another attorney who had presented the argument that Justice Kumar found contemptuous.

The lawyer continued, "Please examine the recording. I merely made a request before your lordship... The country is suffering because of the judiciary. These are my words. Don't try to demean any advocate. You believe you know more because you're a judge and we're advocates? I will argue according to my own approach. Don't exceed your boundaries. Please, remain within limits. I have been practicing for 40 years."

Following this statement, the lawyer exited the courtroom. Other attorneys were visible in the livestream attempting to defuse the tension. The footage has since gone viral.

The high court promptly initiated a criminal contempt case against lawyer Tiwari. The hearing is scheduled for November 11.