Bombay High Court Takes Strong Action: Contempt Proceedings Against Advocate for Defaming Sitting Judge

The Bombay High Court has taken a firm and unequivocal stance against what it describes as a gross abuse of the legal process, initiating contempt proceedings against advocate Arvind Ojha. The action comes in response to Ojha's 'wild and unsubstantiated allegations' made against a sitting judge, Justice R.I.

Chagla, through letters addressed to the President of India, the Chief Justice of India, and other senior judicial authorities.

A division bench comprising Justice G.S. Kulkarni and Justice Firdosh Pooniwalla issued a notice to Ojha, seeking his response to the serious charges. The court minced no words, stating that such actions are a blatant attempt to scandalise and undermine the dignity of the court, directly impeding the administration of justice.

Ojha's allegations, contained in the letters, accused Justice Chagla of bias and favouritism towards a particular senior counsel.

However, the High Court bench critically noted that these grave accusations were made without a shred of supporting material. The judges emphasized that the letters contained 'baseless and defamatory allegations' designed to tarnish the reputation of a judge who was simply discharging his duties.

This is not the first time advocate Ojha has found himself in such a predicament.

The court highlighted a concerning pattern of behaviour, noting that similar contempt proceedings were initiated against him in both 2013 and 2017 for comparable conduct. This history underscores the court's view that Ojha has a persistent tendency to engage in actions that disrespect the judiciary and obstruct its functions.

The High Court's decision to initiate these contempt proceedings serves as a powerful reminder of the sanctity of the judicial system and the severe consequences of attempting to destabilize it through unfounded personal attacks.

It reaffirms the judiciary's commitment to protecting its integrity and ensuring that the administration of justice proceeds without fear or favour, free from unwarranted defamation.