Disruption in Supreme Court: Two Law Students Arrested in Delhi

Delhi Police have detained two law students from Lucknow University following an incident inside the Supreme Court during a hearing last week. The disturbance occurred on 10 July 2026, during the proceedings of a petition filed by Prabal Pratap Singh, a third-year law student, who appeared in person.

The accused, identified as Prabal Pratap Singh (24) and Chander Bhan (23), reportedly disrupted the court session by throwing papers and using abusive language. This behaviour led to a complaint lodged by Supreme Court security personnel, prompting the registration of a First Information Report (FIR) at Tilak Marg Police Station.

According to Delhi Police, Singh allegedly obstructed officials when they intervened to restore order. As a result, he is accused of using illegal force against public servants engaged in their official duties. The incident took place in Court No. 13 before a Bench led by Justice K.V. Viswanathan, who later described Singh’s actions as indicative of being "very disturbed."

The court chose not to initiate contempt proceedings, dismissing Singh's special leave petition on the grounds of merits. In response to the couching of such behaviour as a serious concern, the Supreme Court administration has taken action following the incident.

Chief Justice of India Surya Kant addressed the episode informally at an event, suggesting that disruptive behaviour is not uncommon among young litigants. He emphasised the need for a collective responsibility to uphold the dignity of constitutional institutions, stating, "We must maintain the honour of constitutional bodies; it is our duty to do so."

The Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) expressed strong disapproval of the incident. In a statement, they called for the Union government to establish guidelines for the documentation and sharing of courtroom proceedings. The SCBA condemned the actions of the litigant, asserting that any form of abuse or disruption undermines the judicial process and the reputation of the court.

Furthermore, the Supreme Court Arguing Counsel Association (SCACA) has also sought stringent measures against those involved in what they termed a conspiracy to discredit the judiciary. They raised concerns about the spread of courtroom recordings and negative commentary on social media, suggesting that this trend erodes public confidence in judicial institutions.

The case involved Prabal Pratap Singh challenging an order from the Allahabad High Court, which had dismissed his request to convert an application under Section 173(4) of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita into a private complaint. Singh entered the courtroom demanding action against local officials, but instead of presenting legal arguments, his conduct deteriorated into behaviour described as aggressive.

The Bench, however, focused on the merits of the case, ultimately dismissing Singh’s petition without further punitive measures. Justice K.V. Viswanathan noted that there were no substantial grounds for interference with the earlier decision.

As investigations continue, both students remain in police custody, reflecting ongoing concerns about courtroom conduct and the integrity of judicial proceedings.