Recently, a tense courtroom exchange at the Andhra Pradesh High Court triggered widespread debate after Justice Tarlada Rajasekhar Rao threatened to send a young advocate to police custody during the hearing of a plea challenging a Look Out Circular and passport impounding. The dramatic proceedings, portions of which circulated widely on social media, drew attention to courtroom conduct, judicial authority, and the limits of professional decorum inside constitutional courts.
The confrontation unfolded when the Court indicated that the matter may be adjourned to obtain a previous order passed in a similar case. The Bench appeared displeased with the conduct of the petitioner’s counsel and questioned whether he believed himself to be above courtroom discipline. As the advocate repeatedly sought leniency and claimed he was unwell, the Court directed police personnel to take him into custody for 24 hours and even asked lawyers present in court to identify themselves as witnesses for recording the incident in the judicial order. The exact remark that triggered the judge’s sharp reaction, however, remains unclear. Sources later indicated that intervention by the High Court Bar Association led to the withdrawal of the custody direction.
The Bench remarked that the advocate had behaved “indolently” in court and warned him against interrupting further proceedings. In one of the most striking moments from the hearing, Justice Rao was heard saying, “Call the police. You go and file appeal.” Even as the lawyer stood with folded hands seeking “grace,” the Court maintained that the matter was only being deferred for consideration after summer vacation. The direction for police custody was subsequently recalled, and the case now stands adjourned for hearing after the court recess.
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