Advocates Kumaresh Singh and Ujjwal Raj approached Chief Justice BR Gavai, citing serious misconduct by ED’s Patna office officials, including Deputy Director Aman Saxena and Additional Director Bhupesh.
The lawyers alleged that these officers displayed illegal, undisciplined, disrespectful, and aggressive behaviour towards them and their client, Rishu Shri.
They urged immediate action to prevent further incidents and preserve the dignity of the legal community.
Rishu Shri, responding to a PMLA summons, appeared at the Enforcement Directorate office in Patna.
Concerned for his personal safety due to prior coercive incidents, he engaged Singh and Raj to accompany him during the proceedings to maintain a visible distance, preventing physical abuse or threats.
Upon arrival at the office at Chandpura Place, West Gandhi Maidan, the lawyers were requested to observe the questioning from a safe distance.
They also presented powers of attorney and relevant court orders, which officers refused to accept.
Alleged Misconduct
Advocates reported that Deputy Director Saxena began aggressive verbal attacks, threatening the lawyers and making derogatory remarks about their authority and capacity to defend their client.
Despite repeated appeals to maintain professionalism and civility, Saxena continued shouting and issuing threats, using offensive language.
Additional Director Bhupesh also failed to ensure decorum, refusing to acknowledge legal documentation and court orders presented by the lawyers.
During the interactions, lawyers claimed they faced intimidation and physical encirclement by several officers, which forced them to leave the office for their safety. They also noted that CCTV footage recorded the events inside the ED premises.
Rishu Shri currently enjoys interim protection against arrest by the Supreme Court in WP (Crl) No. 411/2025, allowing him to seek relief from appropriate legal forums.
Despite compliance with summons and willingness to cooperate, the client and lawyers encountered alleged abusive behaviour by ED officials.
Request for Action
The advocates emphasised that their sole request had been to observe the proceedings from a safe distance, ensuring transparency and protection against physical or verbal abuse.
They requested that the Chief Justice consider taking action against Deputy Director Aman Saxena and Additional Director Bhupesh to safeguard lawyers’ dignity, enforce professional conduct, and prevent any repetition of such misconduct within the ED.
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