Gauhati High Court Calls for Enhanced Security for Judicial Officers

In a significant ruling, the Gauhati High Court has highlighted the urgent need for enhanced security for judicial officers, particularly those handling criminal cases. This call for action comes in light of a recent incident where a magistrate faced threats and abuse while on his way to court. The court has directed the Assam Government to review existing security measures, emphasizing the importance of personal security for all judicial officials. The case involved two accused who were granted bail after being arrested for their actions against the magistrate. This ruling underscores the fundamental right to safety for all citizens, including those in the judiciary.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 21, 2025, 09:17 IST

Urgent Need for Judicial Security Highlighted

Guwahati, Dec 21: The Gauhati High Court has emphasized the critical requirement for personal security measures for judicial officers, particularly those involved in criminal cases, during a recent bail hearing.

This statement was made while the court was deliberating on a bail application for two individuals accused of threatening and verbally assaulting a magistrate in Bilasipara, Dhubri.

The court noted that if adequate security had been in place, the unfortunate incident could have been prevented, advocating for personal security officers for judicial officials at all levels.

Furthermore, the court instructed the Assam Government's Home Department and the Director General of Police to reassess the security protocols for judicial officers statewide.

On December 1, a Judicial Magistrate-cum-Civil Judge (Junior Division) from Bilasipara filed a complaint at the local police station, reporting that his vehicle was struck by an Alto car (Registration No. AS-16-H-2768) while he was en route to court around 10 am.

Upon stopping to investigate, the magistrate was reportedly threatened and chased by two men armed with wooden sticks, who also damaged the back of his vehicle. He was able to reach the court, where staff and a home guard intervened to ensure his safety.

Following the FIR, the Bilasipara Police initiated Case No. 376/2025 under applicable sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023. The accused, Hafijur Rahman and Atowar Rahman, were apprehended on December 2 and held in police custody for two days before being transferred to judicial custody.

The pair later filed bail petitions with the Gauhati High Court through their lawyer, Bijon Kumar Mahajan. The Additional Public Prosecutor contested the request, highlighting the serious nature of the offense against a judicial officer. After considering arguments from both sides, the court recognized the essential right to safety and security for all citizens, including judicial officers and foreigners.

Taking into account the investigation's progress and the duration of detention, the court granted bail to the accused, requiring them to provide bonds of Rs 30,000 each along with appropriate sureties.