On May 16, 2025, the Delhi High Court denied anticipatory bail to a lawyer accused in a road rage incident, emphasizing that “all are equal in the eyes of law” and that granting such relief would send the wrong message to society.

Justice Girish Kathpalia, presiding over the case titled Raj Kumar Chaudhary v. State, highlighted that the accused, being a practicing advocate, should have upheld the law rather than taking it into his own hands. The court noted that the incident involved “broad daylight violence” where the lawyer and his brother, identified as the President of the Bajrang Wahini Dal, allegedly assaulted a software engineer. The victim reported being abused, thrown to the ground, and beaten with fists and kicks. Furthermore, it was alleged that the assailants took the victim into their residence and inflicted multiple injuries, including a bleeding head wound.

The court dismissed the defense’s argument that the incident was a mere road rage, stating that such events often have severe consequences, including psychological trauma and, in some cases, loss of life. Justice Kathpalia remarked that the involvement of individuals holding responsible positions in society, such as an advocate and a political organization leader, made it imperative for them to uphold law and order.

The judgment underscores the judiciary’s stance that professional status does not grant immunity from legal accountability, especially in cases involving public violence.

Sources