Prayagraj: The Allahabad High Court has framed a charge of contempt in an interim order against Krishna Kumar Pandey, a resident of Basti district. It is alleged that Pandey made derogatory remarks against a judicial officer in a WhatsApp group, which has undermined the dignity of the judiciary.
What is the case?
Pandey had commented in a WhatsApp group of lawyers that a serious accusation, such as taking bribes and issuing fake orders, had been leveled against an ADJ (Additional District and Sessions Judge).
After examining the comment, the High Court bench found that this act amounted to lowering the court's reputation, intimidating the court, and undermining its authority.
The court decided that this matter should be categorized as “criminal contempt”.
Court's Reasoning and Order
The bench of Justice J.J. Munir and Justice Pramod Kumar Srivastava stated that Pandey's comment was deliberate—with the intent to defame the court.
The court has asked Pandey to present his side of the case.
The court also directed that corrective measures be taken to prevent such misuse in professional groups (such as bar associations) and other social platforms.
Impact and Way Forward
This case once again highlights the importance of the judiciary's autonomy and dignity.
Balancing freedom of expression with its limitations on social media/groups has now become even more crucial.
In the upcoming hearing, it will be seen what the accused's defense will be, and whether the court will use this incident as a precedent.
