Judge seeks FIR against Anandpur Sahib Bar assn chief

AN AND P UR SAHIB: An and p ur Sahib additional civil judge (senior division)-cum-sub divisional judicial magistrate, Ashok Kumar Chauhan, has sought the registration of a police case against Anandpur Sahib Bar Association president Daulat Singh Chabrewal. In his complaint to Anandpur Sahib SHO, the judge has accused Chabrewal of using criminal force to deter him from discharging his duty, intentionally insulting him and for criminal intimidation. The judge added that during a hearing, Chabrewal ‘directed’ him to send a reference for the transfer of the case concerned, but he (the judge) wanted the parties to address arguments.

He claimed that at this, Chabrewal, in a contemptuous tone, said that he would like to record a statement that he would not want the case to be decided by him (judge Chauhan). The judge alleged that Chabrewal even threatened him in Punjabi, claiming that he would see how the judge remained in service.

In his complaint, the judge adds that Chabrewal’s actions constituted a criminal offence under sections 353 (assault or criminal force to deter public servant from duty), 504 (intentional insult with intent to provoke breach of peace) and 506 (criminal intimidation), and that legal action be taken against him.

Chabrewal, however, alleged, “I had sought an adjournment, but the presiding officer lost his temper and shouted at me, asking me to get out.

The behaviour of the presiding officer was rude and abusive. I have submitted a complaint against the judge to district and sessions judge.” HTC