Karnataka HC Stays FIR Against Student In Road Rage Case

The Karnataka High Court has issued an interim stay against the proceedings in a FIR registered by Malur police against a student, M K Vinay, in a road rage case.

The case began when Vinay, travelling on his two-wheeler, asked the husband of Judge Gayathri to slow down. The couple then intercepted Vinay's motorcycle and started abusing him and his mother.

After a verbal altercation, Gayathri's husband called the police, who arrived and slapped Vinay near his house. Following directions from Gayathri, the police registered a FIR against Vinay and his family members, including his 70-year-old grandfather.

Justice M Nagaprasanna of the Karnataka High Court noted that a judge's behaviour should be acceptable both inside and outside the court. He requested the Chief Justice of Karnataka to initiate action against Gayathri, citing that this was not the first incident of her high-handedness.

The Advocate Association of Bengaluru has written a letter to the Kolar District Court and the Karnataka High Court, questioning the power of a judge to direct the police and urging the suspension of Gayathri.

Vinay and his family had approached the Karnataka High Court to quash the proceedings against them. The Special Public Prosecutor informed the court that Gayathri had earlier directed the police to register a FIR against a PWD Engineer who had refused to repair her house.

Justice Nagaprasanna issued an interim stay against any proceedings and recommended that the Karnataka Chief Justice initiate action against Gayathri.

The incident has raised concerns about the behaviour of judges outside the court and their powers to direct the police.

The Karnataka High Court's decision to stay the FIR and recommend action against Gayathri is seen as a significant step in upholding the rule of law and ensuring that judges are held accountable for their actions.

The case highlights the need for judges to maintain a high level of integrity and professionalism, both inside and outside the court.

In conclusion, the Karnataka High Court's decision in this case is a reminder that the judiciary is committed to upholding the principles of justice and fairness, and that judges will be held accountable for their actions.