This is a true story that’s very close to my heart. It’s a story of relentless determination, the pursuit of justice, and the triumph of right over wrong. This is me and my family story.
It is related to a case which I won against the two lawyers who extorted money from my father back in 2003. After a 20-year legal battle, both were finally convicted by the court on 26.09.2023.
1. The Injustice That Started It All
In the year 2003 on September 1st when I was just 5 years old, two lawyers, extorted money from my father. But they didn’t stop there; they concocted a fake case against my mother, hoping that my father would withdraw the extortion charges. The police, astonishingly, refused to file an FIR against these lawyers, citing their profession as a reason. It was a dark time for my family.
2. The Birth of a Legal Crusader
As years passed, I grew older, and my father’s ordeal never left our thoughts. The injustice and the broken justice system became regular topics of discussion in our home. It was during those moments that I made a life-changing decision. I decided to become a lawyer, driven by the desire to right the wrongs that had been done to my family.
3. Law School and the Pursuit of Justice
Fast forward to 2021, the year I graduated from Jindal Global law school. I was now equipped with the tools I needed to seek justice for my family. It was an uphill battle from the very beginning. The accused, both seasoned lawyers, used every bit of their knowledge and influence to obstruct justice.
4. Obstacles Along the Way
The accused lawyers, desperate to evade accountability, pulled out all the stops to derail the legal proceedings. They tried to delay the case at every turn, even going so far as to enlist the help of the ex-bar president of NDBA. Their aim was clear: create an uncomfortable environment for me and my family in the courtroom. But I was determined, and I wouldn’t be deterred.
5. Seeking Expedited Justice
Recognizing the need for swifter action, I took the case to the High Court, pleading for an expeditious trial. We also filed a transfer petition because of the accused lawyers’ long-standing association within the same court, which could have created a conflict of interest. The High Court’s order in favour of an expeditious trial and closely monitored the trial itself, was a turning point.
6. Abusing the Process of Law
As the case progressed, the accused lawyers continued their tactics. They tried to change the language of cross-examination to their advantage, and at times even showed up with groups of lawyers to pressure us. But I remained resolute in upholding the principles of justice.
7. The Triumph of Justice
As the case come to its final stage. On September 26, 2023, after two decades of battling against the odds, justice was served. The Hon’ble court convicted the accused lawyers under Section 341/384/506/34 of the Indian Penal Code IPC i.e., wrongful restraint, extortion, criminal intimidation & common intention. It marked the end of a long and gruelling journey, but more importantly, it symbolized a victory for justice, perseverance, and the rule of law.
Conclusion: The Power of Perseverance
This story is a testament to the incredible power of perseverance. It’s a reminder that, with unwavering determination, even the most daunting legal battles can be won. My journey was made possible not only by my commitment but also by the support of my interns Puneet Rajput & Rahul Jamnal, colleagues, and seniors. A special thanks to the lawyer Mr. R. K. Kaushik who helped my father in getting the FIR registered filed against both the accused persons under Section 156(3) CrPC. It’s a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the unshakable will to stand up against wrongdoing and ensure that justice prevails.
So, remember, even in the darkest of times, when faced with injustice, there’s always hope. And with determination and a strong support system, justice can, and will, prevailed.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Delhi court convicted the accused persons under Sections 341, 384, 506, and 34 of the Indian Penal Code — wrongful restraint, extortion, criminal intimidation, and acts done with common intention. Together these provisions cover coercing a person through threats or force to hand over money or property, and doing so in concert with another person.
Section 156(3) of the Code of Criminal Procedure lets a magistrate direct the police to register and investigate an FIR when they have refused to do so on their own. It was used in this case after the police declined to file an FIR against the accused, citing their profession as lawyers — the magistrate's direction compelled the investigation to begin.
A transfer petition asks a higher court to move a case from one court or judge to another, typically to avoid a real or perceived conflict of interest. Here it was filed because the accused lawyers had a long-standing association within the same court complex, which could have compromised a fair trial.
A victim or complainant can approach the High Court under its inherent or supervisory jurisdiction, seeking directions for a day-to-day or time-bound trial and close monitoring of the proceedings by the trial court. This is generally sought where there is a risk of prolonged delay or attempts to derail the case, as happened here over nearly two decades.
Under Section 384 of the Indian Penal Code, extortion is committed when a person intentionally puts someone in fear of injury and dishonestly induces them to deliver property or valuable security. The prosecution must show both the threat or intimidation and that it caused the victim to hand over money or property against their will.
