The Delhi High Court has quashed a five-year-old FIR linked to a neighborhood quarrel in Jagatpuri, noting that both parties had settled their dispute amicably. Justice Anish Dayal, presiding over the matter, observed that dragging the case further would serve no useful purpose and instead burden the state machinery unnecessarily.
Background
The case stemmed from an FIR registered in 2020 at Jagatpuri Police Station under Sections 324 (causing hurt with dangerous weapons), 506 (criminal intimidation), and 34 (acts done by several persons with common intention) of the Indian Penal Code. The complainant, who lived in the same neighborhood as petitioner Brij Ballabh Gaur, had accused him and his wife of assault and threats.
After years of hostility, both families chose to settle their differences in July this year. A written settlement was executed between petitioner no.1, his wife, and the complainant. The court was informed that peace had returned between them and that continuing with the criminal proceedings would be futile.
Court's Observations
When the matter came up on September 19, 2025, the court noted the physical presence of the petitioners as well as the complainant, all of whom were identified by their lawyers and the investigating officer. The complainant, accompanied by her husband, told the bench she had "no objection to the quashing of the FIR," given that the earlier disputes had been resolved and cordial relations were restored.
Justice Dayal remarked that since the parties were neighbours, preserving harmony made more sense than prolonging a bitter legal fight.
"Considering the chances of conviction being remote and bleak, there is no use continuing with proceedings of the present FIR as it would be a misuse of the process of the Court," the order records.
Decision
However, the quashing came with a unique condition. The petitioners undertook before the court that they would organize two Bhandaras community feasts at Shiv Mandir in Radheypuri for at least 50 poor children. One feast will be held during the upcoming Navratra period, and the other during Diwali.
The court directed that the petitioners must file an affidavit, along with photographs, to prove compliance. A copy of the same will also be submitted to the investigating officer.
With that undertaking, Justice Dayal allowed the petition and quashed FIR No.248/2020. The order concluded with a reminder that the parties must abide by the terms of the settlement.
Case Title: Brij Ballabh Gaur and Anr. vs. The State of NCT of Delhi and Anr.
Case No.: CRL.M.C. 6500/2025