Bengaluru, July 29, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
The Karnataka High Court on Wednesday made strong observations on the conduct expected of members of the judiciary while hearing a petition linked to a road rage incident involving a judicial officer in Kolar district, stating that holding judicial office does not entitle anyone to display arrogance or ego.
Justice M. Nagaprasanna made the observations while hearing a petition filed by K.M. Vinay, V. Kavita and P. Venkatesh, who have sought the quashing of an FIR registered against them at the Malur Police Station.
The case stems from an incident involving Malur Civil Judge and JMFC N. Gayathri, whose alleged conduct during a roadside altercation came under scrutiny after a video of the incident circulated widely on social media. The video purportedly shows the judge reprimanding a young motorist and allegedly directing police personnel to assault him and register a criminal case.
Following the incident, three persons were arrested based on a complaint lodged by the judge. The episode also prompted the Advocates’ Association, Bengaluru, to seek her suspension, alleging misuse of authority.
During the hearing, the State Public Prosecutor played the viral video before the court and submitted that the judge had separately lodged a complaint regarding its circulation and had also issued an order directing that the video be removed. The prosecutor further alleged that similar instances involving the judicial officer had occurred in the past and informed the court that 69-year-old petitioner P. Venkatesh had been summoned to the police station and subsequently arrested.
Observing that the allegations, if established, reflected “a classic case of arrogance and ego,” Justice Nagaprasanna remarked that judges are expected to uphold the dignity of their office not only inside courtrooms but also in public life.
“Just because one is a judge, it does not permit arrogance or ego. Judges must maintain dignity even outside the courts,” the court observed.
The High Court directed the Registrar General to place the matter before the Chief Justice for appropriate consideration regarding any action against the judicial officer. It also stayed the investigation in the case until further orders.
The matter has been adjourned for further hearing.
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