A court proceeding turned hostile at Delhi’s Dwarka Court when a woman judge was verbally abused and threatened moments after convicting a man in a 6-year-old cheque bounce case.
Judicial Magistrate First Class Shivangi Mangla was presiding over the matter when the accused reacted violently to her ruling, creating a disturbing scene inside the courtroom.
Judge Threatened In Open Court
As soon as the verdict was delivered, the convicted man reportedly erupted in rage and shouted a chilling threat at the judge:
“Tu hai kya cheez ………….ki tu bahar mil, dekhte hai kaise zinda ghar jaati hai”
(“Who do you even think you are? Meet us outside—we’ll see how you return home alive”).
Judge Mangla recorded in her order that the convict was also seen holding an unidentified object, which he attempted to hurl at her following the conviction under Section 138 of the Negotiable Instruments Act, related to cheque dishonour.
Lawyer Joins In Abusive Outburst
What made the incident even more alarming was the involvement of the convict’s lawyer, Athul Kumar, who allegedly joined in the abuse. The judge noted that both the accused and his counsel launched a tirade of vulgar and threatening remarks, even targeting her family.
According to her statement, the two men not only pressured her to reverse the conviction but also attempted to intimidate her into resigning from her judicial post.
“They harassed me mentally and physically to resign from my job and to acquit the accused, else they would file complaints against me and force me to quit,” Judge Mangla wrote in her detailed order.
Strict Action Recommended
Taking strong exception to the intimidation, Judge Mangla has recommended that the National Commission for Women (NCW) take appropriate action against the accused for threats and harassment.
She also directed that a show-cause notice be served to advocate Athul Kumar, asking him to explain his behavior and why criminal contempt proceedings should not be initiated before the Delhi High Court.
The convicted man was sentenced to 22 months in prison and was ordered to pay a fine of ₹6.65 lakh. His lawyer pleaded for leniency, citing his client’s age (63) and his background as a retired government teacher with three unemployed sons.
Referral To Higher Authorities
Judge Mangla has also referred the incident to the Principal District and Sessions Judge (South West, Dwarka) for further consideration and possible escalation to the Delhi High Court for appropriate legal action regarding the serious breach of courtroom decorum.
This unsettling episode has once again raised critical questions about the safety of judicial officers, especially female judges, inside court premises. Courtrooms, expected to be safe spaces for the impartial delivery of justice, are increasingly witnessing instances of threats and intimidation.
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