‘Must be a protector of law, not a predator’: Delhi HC raps sub-inspector for misbehaving with woman advocate

The order stated that cognizance is being taken of a complaint in relation to an “unsavoury incident which took place in the precinct of this Courtroom (just outside the entrance)”.

“The Investigating Officer (IO) of the case was not only verbally abusive with the learned counsel for the applicant as well as the complainant, but also intimidated and threatened them with dire consequences, just short of physically assaulting them,” the order passed by Justice Arun Monga read.

“When a learned senior counsel, who is leading the matter to assist this court, tried to intervene, he was meted out similar treatment,” it added.

“In the premise, I am of the view that such misconduct on the part of SI Narinder cannot be countenanced under any circumstances.”

“He is supposed to be a protector of law and not a predator. He cannot turn his khaki to the level of such arrogance that not only did he misbehave with officers of this Court who are doing the honourable duty of assisting the Court in discharge of justice, but also threatened them with dire consequences merely because he thinks he is above law. Be that as it may, the entire matter needs to be investigated by an officer not below the rank of the Assistant Commissioner of Police,” it said in the order.

It directed Inspector Kishore Kumar, from the South Rohini Police Station who was present in court, to register a zero FIR under relevant penal sections. The FIR was lodged and marked to Tilak Marg police station.

Later, the counsel for the state appeared and stated that SI Narinder has tendered his unconditional apology to the counsel concerned and he be let off.

The judge, however, said in the order, “I am of the view that looking at the conduct of SI Narinder, the apology be submitted in writing by way of an affidavit. The needful be done by tomorrow (September 23).”

The SI is currently posted as incharge of Okhla Industrial Area police post.

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