Delhi Man Jailed for Disrupting Court with Rice Throwing; Fears of Black Magic Emerge
New Delhi, India – August 12, 2025 – In a bizarre and unsettling incident, a Delhi court has sentenced Dr. Chandra Vibhas to imprisonment until the court adjourns, along with a fine of Rs 2000, for deliberately disrupting court proceedings by throwing rice. The incident, which occurred Monday in the court of Additional Sessions Judge Shefali Barnala Tandon, caused a 15-20 minute interruption and sparked concerns among court staff and lawyers about potential black magic.
Rice Throwing Causes Chaos and Fear
According to officials, Dr. Vibhas threw rice during a hearing, scattering it throughout the courtroom. This prompted immediate requests from those present to have the area cleaned, with some expressing hesitation to approach the judge’s bench due to superstitious beliefs surrounding rice and its association with negative spiritual practices. The judge herself directed the accused to cover the rice and summoned cleaning staff.
The court record details the disruption: “The court room was packed, the courts present there requested the court to remove the throwed rice and clean the court room, as they were scattered everywhere. However, after this incident, they are also hesitant to come to the court’s dice to hear their cases.” The proceedings were halted until a cleaner arrived to sanitize the area, a process that took approximately 10 minutes.
Legal Ramifications and the Importance of Courtroom Conduct
The act was prosecuted under Section 267 of the Code of India Justice (BNS), which addresses deliberately insulting public servants and obstructing their work during judicial proceedings. This section is rarely invoked, highlighting the severity with which the court viewed Dr. Vibhas’s actions. It’s a stark reminder that courtroom decorum isn’t merely a matter of politeness; it’s fundamental to the administration of justice.
While seemingly unusual, this case underscores a broader issue: the increasing need to protect the integrity of judicial processes. Disruptions, whether intentional or accidental, can erode public trust and hinder the fair and efficient delivery of justice. Section 267, while specific, reflects a wider legal framework designed to safeguard the judicial system from interference. Understanding these laws is crucial for anyone involved in legal proceedings, from litigants to legal professionals.
The Psychology of Disruption and Superstition
The reaction to the rice throwing – the fear of black magic – reveals a fascinating intersection of cultural beliefs and legal proceedings. Superstitions, while often dismissed as irrational, hold significant sway in many societies, including India. The incident highlights how deeply ingrained these beliefs can be, even within formal institutions like the courts.
Psychologically, disruptive acts like this can be interpreted as attempts to exert control or express frustration. Dr. Vibhas’s subsequent apologies, including kneeling in the courtroom, suggest a degree of remorse or an attempt to mitigate the consequences of his actions. However, the court rightly emphasized that the act itself, regardless of intent, was unacceptable.
A Warning to the Public: Respecting the Judicial Process
Additional Judge Tandon, upon resuming proceedings, delivered a strong message: “Insulting the court or obstructing judicial proceedings gives a harmful message to the society. This behavior of the accused not only disrupted the court proceedings but also weakened the judicial process and also endangered the foundation of our legal system.” This statement serves as a clear warning to the public about the importance of respecting the judicial process and the potential consequences of disruptive behavior.
This case is a potent reminder that the courtroom is not a space for personal expression or the enactment of personal beliefs. It is a sacred space dedicated to the pursuit of justice, and its sanctity must be protected. For readers interested in learning more about Indian legal procedures and courtroom etiquette, resources are available through the Supreme Court of India’s website and various legal aid organizations.
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