Intense Legal Exchange Over Ajeet Bharti’s Anticipatory Bail
The Delhi High Court witnessed a heated exchange during the anticipatory bail hearing of YouTuber Ajeet Bharti. The session included a sharp confrontation between Bharti’s legal representative, Advocate Jai Anant Dehadrai, and Justice Saurabh Banerjee.
The tension unfolded when Dehadrai attempted to submit a document containing a transcript of the controversial remarks made by Bharti in a YouTube video. Justice Banerjee intervened, expressing strong disapproval and cautioning Dehadrai about the potential for contempt of court.
“You cannot hand over the words used by him to a court of law. I will issue contempt notice to you,” Justice Banerjee stated firmly, emphasizing the inappropriateness of the language contained in the document submitted by Dehadrai.
In defense, Dehadrai argued that the transcript was a reproduction of allegations made in the FIR and that it was customary to present such documents to assist the court. He maintained that his actions did not constitute contempt, asserting, “I am not committing any contempt.”
Justice Banerjee, however, maintained that the act of submitting the document constituted contempt. “I am only issuing a show cause notice, that’s all,” he remarked, prompting Dehadrai to consider withdrawing from the case.
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Expressing his dissatisfaction, Dehadrai announced, “I apologise if I have done something to upset My Lords. I will withdraw from the case right now.” He indicated his intent to cease appearing before Justice Banerjee and to engage a senior counsel to continue the case.
Justice Banerjee clarified that Dehadrai was misinterpreting the court’s stance and that there was no suggestion for him to withdraw. “I am not saying don’t refer to this. I am saying refer to this from the order,” he explained.
Despite this clarification, Dehadrai expressed discomfort with continuing after being warned of potential contempt. “I’ve never been told by a court that contempt will be issued because I’m handing over some documents,” he said.
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Justice Banerjee reassured Dehadrai that there was no prejudice against him, stating, “There is nothing against you or for you. As a counsel, you have all the liberties and privileges to appear before me.” He encouraged Dehadrai to proceed with the case, acknowledging the need to not judge a situation prematurely.
Ultimately, the arguments were heard, and the court reserved its decision on the matter. The confrontation highlighted the complexities involved in legal proceedings and the delicate balance between courtroom decorum and the presentation of factual materials.
