Daijiworld Media Network- Lucknow
Lucknow, Apr 11: In a rare and stern move, the Allahabad High Court has sentenced local lawyer Ashok Pande to six months of imprisonment in connection with a 2021 contempt of court case, sparked by his appearance in court without a lawyer's robe and with his shirt unbuttoned.
A division bench comprising Justices Vivek Chaudhary and BR Singh pronounced the order on Thursday, observing that Pande’s actions reflected “serious misconduct” and warranted “exemplary punishment.” Alongside the jail term, the court also imposed a fine of Rs 2,000, adding that failure to pay the fine would result in an additional month of imprisonment.
The court directed Pande to surrender before the chief judicial magistrate in Lucknow within four weeks.
The suo motu contempt proceedings were initiated after the lawyer appeared in court on August 18, 2021, in what was described as “improper attire.” When questioned about his appearance, Pande allegedly misbehaved with the judges and referred to them as "goondas."
Despite being given multiple opportunities to respond to the contempt notice, Pande chose not to participate in the proceedings, which the court said reflected his disregard for judicial decorum and authority.
In addition to the jail term, the bench also issued a show cause notice asking why Pande should not be permanently barred from practicing before the Allahabad High Court and its Lucknow bench. He has been given time until May 1 to submit his response.
The court also took note of Pande’s past record, pointing out previous contempt proceedings against him, including a two-year ban from the High Court premises in 2017.
The ruling is being seen as a strong message by the judiciary on maintaining the sanctity and decorum of court proceedings.