Delhi High Court Issues Notice On Former SCBA Secy's Plea Challenging Unilateral Suspension Of His WhatsApp Account

Former Secretary of the Supreme Court Bar Association, Advocate Rohit Pandey has moved the Delhi High Court seeking relief against the unilateral suspension of his WhatsApp account.

The matter was listed before Justice Sachin Datta on Monday (December 01), who issued notice to WhatsApp and listed the matter next on December 18.

As per the plea, Pandey's WhatsApp account was abruptly deactivated without any prior notice, show cause or opportunity to retrieve his data, which includes legal drafts, client communications, Bar Council of Delhi election material, etc.

It is stated that this action, during the crucial period of the Bar Council of Delhi (DBA) elections, has severely hampered Pandey's professional duties, canvassing efforts and fair participation in the election process.

It is alleged that such action is violative of his freedom of speech and his right to practice his profession.

Reliance is also placed on K.S. Puttaswamy v. Union of India (2017) where the Supreme Court recognized the right to privacy as a fundamental right, emphasizing that personal data and communications are integral to individual dignity, autonomy, and liberty.

Apart from restoration of his account, Pandey has also prayed that WhatsApp accounts of lawyers across the country not be suspended in such a manner, as they carry both social and professional responsibilities and contain crucial data, material, and contacts.

Case title: Rohit Pandey v. Union of India

Case no.: W.P.(C) 18178/2025