The Delhi High Court has taken a stern view of alleged threats made against judges by Adeeshwar Singhal. Singhal is already facing criminal contempt proceedings in Court on its own motion v. Adeeshwar Singhal.
A Division Bench of Justice Navin Chawla and Justice Ravinder Dudeja directed Singhal to remain personally present before the Court on March 23. The Bench warned that if he fails to appear, the Court will take “appropriate coercive steps” to secure his presence.
In an order dated February 19, the Bench noted that Singhal had not complied with earlier directions that required physical appearance. Even though he continued to join hearings through video conferencing, the Court recorded that he allegedly threatened the Bench. The Court also noted that it had cautioned him earlier that such conduct could aggravate the contempt.
The Bench said: the respondent did not appear in person despite directions. He joined virtually but threatened the Court. The Court took strong exception and warned that this would compound the contempt. The Court again called upon him to appear in person on the next date, failing which it would take coercive steps to ensure his presence.
The Court also appointed Advocate Amit George as amicus curiae to assist in the matter.
Background of the contempt proceedings
The contempt action began last year after a reference from a district judge posted at Karkardooma Courts. Court records state that on April 9, 2025, Singhal appeared before that court via video conferencing. The record alleges that he made scandalous and derogatory remarks against the judge in open court. It also alleges that he repeatedly interrupted proceedings and disobeyed court directions. Despite warnings and attempts to restore order, he allegedly continued disruptive and disrespectful conduct.
The High Court issued notice to Singhal on May 23, 2025. It directed him to appear on August 1, 2025. He did not appear in person.
The Court then issued bailable warrants on November 6, 2025. The order records that Singhal again joined via video conferencing that day. It further records that he refused to disclose his location. He also said he would not face what he called “stupid proceedings.”
On December 2, 2025, the Court was told that the warrants could not be executed. During that hearing, Singhal again appeared virtually. The order records that he used derogatory and contemptuous words against the High Court judges. The Court then removed him from the proceedings. The Bench later issued non-bailable warrants.
On January 8, 2026, police informed the Court that Singhal had left the country. When the matter came up again on February 19, Singhal once more joined via video conferencing. The Court recorded that he allegedly used threatening language towards the Bench.
In view of the repeated non-compliance, the Bench reiterated its direction for personal appearance on the next date. It said it would take coercive steps if he fails to appear.
