Delhi High Court imposes ₹10k fine on man who appeared for virtual hearing in vest

The Delhi High Court recently imposed a fine of ₹10,000 on a man who appeared for a virtual hearing in his vest, terming his conduct “totally unacceptable” (Saurabh Gogia and Others v. The State and Anr).

“Even though the proceedings were being conducted through VC he should have appeared before the Court in proper clothes. Therefore, costs of Rs.10,000/- is imposed upon petitioner no.5 for his aforesaid conduct, to be deposited with the Delhi High Court Legal Services Committee within a week from today,” the Court said.

Justice Rajnish Bhatnagar was hearing a petition seeking quashing of an FIR registered by a wife against her husband. The Court was informed that the parties have settled the dispute amongst themselves, and that the marriage has been dissolved.

The Court was informed that a girl child was born after the wedding, but no visitation rights have been given to the father. Counsel appearing for the husband asked the Court that an email should be sent to the petitioner informing him about the well-being of the child, to which the mother agreed.

“I have interacted with the parties and they submit that they have settled their disputes. Respondent No.2 admits that she has settled the matter amicably with the petitioners. She further submits that the settlement/compromise has taken place voluntarily, without any force, pressure or coercion,” read the order.

[Read Order]