Karnataka High Court Orders Criminal Contempt Action Against Advocate For Throwing Files, Loud Backtalk

The Karnataka High Court has ordered initiation of criminal contempt action against an advocate for misbehaving in court by throwing the case files, addressing the bench in a loud voice and refusing to argue on merits.

A single judge bench Justice K S Hemalekha noted the following grounds for directing initiation of the proceedings against Advocate M.Veerabhadraiah:

"(i) Misbehaviour: Throwing his files ghastly in dismay after rejection of IA 2/2022.

(ii) Arrogance: Using singular language towards the Bench with a directive voice and inspite of the Court warning him to mind his behaviour, he mentioned "least bothered of the consequences" and left the Court in sheer anger throwing the files.

(iii) Backtalk: Talking in loud voice and refusing to argue the matter on merits despite repetitive requests from the Court as the matter was argued on merits before hearing I.A.No. 2/2022.

(iv) Violation of Court Rules: Constantly interrupting the Court proceedings while the Court was passing orders. The act and conduct of the advocate tends to undermine the dignity of the Court and hinders the due course of judicial proceedings or administration of justice."

It thus directed the Registrar (Judicial) to take necessary steps to initiate suo motu criminal contempt proceedings against the Advocate under Section 2(c) of the Contempt of Courts Act, 1971.

“Upon consideration of the events that transpired during the proceedings of the instant case, the Court observes with grave concern, the conduct of the petitioner's counsel, M.Veerabhadraiah, warrants initiation of contempt proceedings suo motu...The cumulative acts of the advocate would amount to undermining the dignity and majesty of the Court apart from interference with the court's normal proceedings and procedures,” it observed.

The counsel was appearing for the petitioner in a matter. He indulged in alleged misbehaviour after the Court imposed cost on an application filed by him objecting to the caveator.

The court has also directed the registry to forward a copy of this order to the President, State Bar Council.

Case Title: ANNADURAI. K AND THE GOVT OF INDIA & Others

Case No: WP 12336/2022

Click Here To Read/Download Order