The Karnataka High Court at Dharwad has recalled the proceedings initiated against an advocate over his conduct during a Sessions Court case, after accepting his affidavit of apology. The Court, however, imposed a symbolic fine of ₹1,000 and directed him to plant and maintain 1,000 fruit-bearing saplings.
The order was passed by Justice Hanchate Sanjeevkumar on September 1, 2026, in Criminal Petition No. 100680 of 2026.
Background of the Case
The proceedings arose from a petition filed by Ravi Basavaraj and others seeking transfer of Sessions Case No. 5 of 2026 pending before the I Additional District and Sessions Judge, Koppal, sitting at Gangavathi. The transfer petition had earlier been rejected by the High Court on April 16, 2026.
While deciding that petition, the High Court had referred to observations made by the Sessions Court concerning the conduct of advocate S. Rangaswamy, who was appearing for the accused. The High Court had then directed that proceedings concerning criminal contempt, possible action by the Karnataka State Bar Council and criminal proceedings be considered against him.
Rangaswamy later approached the High Court seeking recall of the action and submitted an affidavit of apology. Senior counsel P.P. Hegde and advocate V.M. Sheelvanth sought a lenient view, while the Additional Advocate General also supported such an approach.
Court's Observations
Justice Hanchate emphasised that advocates have responsibilities not only towards their clients but also towards the Court and society. The Court noted that an advocate represents a client's case but should not personally assume the role of the client or conduct proceedings in a manner affecting the dignity and decorum of the Court.
The Court observed:
"The Advocate is a spokesman of the Court and it is his solemn duty to co-operate and co-ordinate with the Court in the dispensation of justice. The Advocate shall not step into the shoes of his client and shall not assume himself as if it is his personal case. The Advocate must conduct the case in the most dignified and courteous professional manner."
The Court also referred to several Supreme Court judgments stressing mutual respect between the Bench and the Bar and the need to protect the administration of justice from intimidation or disrespectful conduct.
Decision
After considering the apology, the High Court decided not to take harsh action against Rangaswamy. It recalled the earlier directions relating to criminal contempt proceedings, action by the Karnataka State Bar Council and criminal proceedings under the penal law.
The Court accepted the affidavit of apology and imposed a symbolic fine of ₹1,000, payable to the District Legal Services Authority, Ballary. It also directed the advocate to plant 1,000 fruit-bearing saplings on government or educational premises and maintain them by providing water and fertilizer.
The Court further directed him to file an affidavit confirming compliance by October 31, 2026, and posted the matter for November 2, 2026.
Case Details
Case Title: Ravi Basavaraj & Others v. State of Karnataka & Another
Case Number: Criminal Petition No. 100680 of 2026
Judge: Justice Hanchate Sanjeevkumar
Decision Date: September 1, 2026
