In our ongoing Spotlight series, we focus on key figures from the legal world who have recently made headlines. This week, we turn our attention to Delhi High Court’s Justice Neena Bansal Krishna, whose recent judgments have stirred significant discussion.
Justice Krishna’s Ruling on Press Freedom
A notable judgment from Justice Krishna came to light last week, despite being passed on May 29. She quashed an Enforcement Directorate (ED) case against NewsClick editor Prabir Purkayastha linked to a foreign direct investment (FDI) issue. Justice Krishna criticized the ED’s lengthy investigation, which resulted in Purkayastha’s imprisonment for approximately seven months, labeling the agency’s actions as a “fishing exercise” and an infringement on press freedom.
“These proceedings are not only mala fide but also an arbitrary abuse of power against the petitioners’ free and impartial journalism,” the Court remarked.
Addressing Online Campaigns Against Judiciary
Justice Krishna also addressed targeted online campaigns against the judiciary. During a criminal contempt petition by the Delhi High Court Bar Association (DHCBA) concerning scandalous social media posts about a judge related to the Saket building collapse, Justice Krishna, alongside Justice Madhu Jain, emphasized the importance of protecting judicial independence and upholding the rule of law in India.
However, in a subsequent case, Justice Krishna expressed reservations about initiating criminal contempt proceedings against certain social media users, suggesting that not all derogatory comments warrant such actions.
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Environmental Concerns in Delhi
Another significant matter involved the Central government’s intention to take over lands of the Delhi Gymkhana Club, Indian Polo Club, and Delhi Race Club. Justice Krishna voiced concerns over the potential environmental impact, highlighting Delhi’s pollution issues and warning against further reducing the city’s green spaces.
“The little breather we have in the NDMC area is at risk. We’re already choking, and this will only worsen the situation,” she stated.
Judicial Journey and Key Cases
Justice Neena Bansal Krishna’s legal journey began in Delhi’s district courts. After completing her legal education at Delhi University, she joined the Delhi Judicial Service in 1992 and rose through the ranks, eventually serving as a District & Sessions Judge at Saket Court before her elevation to the Delhi High Court in February 2022.
Throughout her tenure, Justice Krishna has presided over numerous significant cases, especially in the realm of matrimonial disputes. She has been part of landmark decisions that have addressed issues ranging from religious customs like Karwa Chauth to domestic labor and financial disputes in marriages.
Her judgments have often reinforced the rights of women and children. For instance, in April of this year, she criticized the patriarchal mindset in adultery cases, referencing the treatment of Draupadi in the Mahabharata.
High-Profile Political Cases
Justice Krishna has also tackled high-profile cases involving political figures. Notably, she upheld the arrest of Delhi’s then-Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal by the CBI in the Delhi Excise Policy case and dismissed an application by former Jharkhand Chief Minister Madhu Koda seeking a suspension of his conviction in a coal scam case.
Her decisions have occasionally drawn attention beyond the courtroom, such as in cases related to the Delhi Riots, where she has critiqued police investigations and addressed procedural delays.
