The Supreme Court on Tuesday (14 July) directed the Delhi Police to submit a detailed status report on the investigation into the alleged assault of a Supreme Court advocate Pankaj Sharma at his residence in Delhi. Taking note of allegations that the advocate was later threatened to withdraw the FIR, the Court also ordered immediate police protection to safeguard his life and liberty.
The matter was heard by a Bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, Justice Joymalya Bagchi, and Justice V. Mohana after it was urgently mentioned by Senior Advocate Vikas Singh.
Background of the Case
The writ petition was filed by advocate Pankaj Sharma, who alleged that he was assaulted inside his residence on July 11, 2026, suffering serious head injuries that required eight stitches. According to the petition, an FIR was registered, but the offences invoked did not reflect the gravity of the injuries.
The plea further stated that the following day, some of the alleged assailants returned to the advocate's residence and threatened him and his family to withdraw the FIR. It also alleged that despite these developments, no arrests had been made.
Mentioning the case before the Bench, Senior Advocate Vikas Singh said that the petitioner had been practising before the Supreme Court for more than two decades and argued that the incident raised serious concerns about public safety.
Court's Observations
Taking note of the allegations, the Bench treated the matter as urgent and sought the assistance of Attorney General R. Venkataramani, who appeared before the Court and supported the issuance of notice.
Recording its concern, the Bench observed,
"Let status report with respect to the ongoing investigation as well as any action taken on the second complaint made by the victim regarding the threat extended to him for withdrawal of the FIR be filed by a police officer not below the rank of Deputy Commissioner of Police. Meanwhile, it should be ensured that no harm is caused to the victim."
During the hearing, Senior Advocate Vikas Singh submitted that,
"If it can happen to a member of our Bar, how will a common citizen be safe?" He also contended that the FIR reflected only lesser offences despite the nature of the injuries.
Attorney General R. Venkataramani also expressed concern, telling the Court,
"I join the concerns. Very serious matter. Notice may be issued on the writ."
Court's Decision
Considering the seriousness of the allegations, the Supreme Court formally took the matter on board and issued notice in the writ petition. The Court directed the Delhi Police to file a status report on the ongoing investigation, along with details of the action taken on the victim's second complaint alleging threats to withdraw the FIR. The report has to be filed by an officer not below the rank of Deputy Commissioner of Police.
Pending further consideration, the Bench also directed the authorities to ensure that adequate police protection is provided so that no harm is caused to the petitioner.
Case Details:
Case Title: Pankaj Sharma v. State of NCT of Delhi & Ors.
Case Number: Diary No. 41042/2026
Judge: Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, Justice Joymalya Bagchi, and Justice V. Mohana
Decision Date: July 14, 2026
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