Patna High Court Orders Preservation Of CCTV Footage In Plea Alleging Illegal Detention Of Advocate By SDM

On February 9, 2025, the Patna High Court passed an order directing preservation of CCTV footage in a case concerning the alleged illegal detention of a practising advocate inside the office of the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM), Danapur.

A Single Judge Bench of Justice Arun Kumar Jha was hearing a writ petition filed by an advocate of the Patna High Court.

According to the petitioner, he had appeared before the SDM, Danapur to represent a client. It was alleged that the SDM refused him the right of audience by relying upon Section 17 of the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007. The petitioner further stated that when he asserted his statutory right to practise under Section 30 of the Advocates Act, 1961, the SDM allegedly directed his subordinates to lock him inside a room in the office premises. The advocate claimed that he was illegally detained for more than three hours inside the court premises.

In his plea, the petitioner has sought constitution of a Special Investigation Team to inquire into the incident under the supervision of the High Court, as well as initiation of departmental proceedings against the concerned Sub-Divisional Magistrate. He has further stated that on 22.01.2026, he had addressed a written complaint to the SHO, Danapur Police Station, seeking registration of an FIR in connection with the alleged incident, but no FIR has been registered till date. On this basis, he has also prayed for a direction for registration of an FIR.

Taking note of the allegations, the High Court directed that the CCTV footage of the relevant area of the SDM office be preserved. The Court also issued notice to the Sub-Divisional Magistrate and other concerned officials (respondent nos. 7 to 9), including the SDM and his staff, through both ordinary process as well as registered post.

The matter has been listed for further hearing on April 16, 2026.

Case Title: Praween Kumar @ Praveen Singh v. The State of Bihar & Ors.

Case Number: Cr. W.J.C. No. 238 of 2026

Appearance: Mr. Praween Kumar appeared in person. Ms. Roona and Mr. Sanjay Kumar appeared for the respondent-State.

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