Key Facts
The Bombay High Court on Monday (June 15, 2026) directed the Maharashtra government to provide security to retired Justice Gautam Patel, who has been facing threats since his 2024 verdict in the Dawoodi Bohra succession case. The court also sought a report from the Union government on measures taken to protect his daughter, who was attacked in London.
Details of the Court Order
A Division Bench of Acting Chief Justice Ravindra Ghuge and Justice Gautam Ankhad was hearing a public interest litigation filed by three bar associations: the Bombay Bar Association, the Advocates Association of Western India, and the Bombay Incorporated Law Society. The court noted that while two Personal Security Officers had been deployed at the judge's residence, protection was needed both inside and outside the home. Acting Chief Justice Ghuge remarked, "Consider the fact that we are all humans. Not every time we will be inside the house. What if his lordship is at home and his family member goes out for some work?"
The bench emphasized that Justice Patel, a retired High Court judge, performed his duties with care and deserved full protection. It added, "You need to protect him. His family members are provided protection in the United Kingdom after Chief Justice of India Surya Kant intervened. But here in Mumbai, you need to ensure the judge’s protection. It is time to show how committed you are."
Background of Threats
Justice Patel has faced threats for over ten months following his judgment in the Dawoodi Bohra succession dispute. His wife received threat letters in Mumbai, while his daughter Aditi Patel was attacked by a masked person on a London street. Following the attack, the family received security from the Hertfordshire Constabulary after Chief Justice Surya Kant, during an official visit to the UK, directed the Indian High Commissioner in London to arrange protection.
Impact on Judiciary
Senior Advocate Nitin Thakkar, representing the bar bodies, urged the court to pass a strong order, stating, "It is not just a threat to Justice Patel but to the entire judiciary. A message must be sent that the judiciary is not going to take such threats lightly."
Reaction from Dawoodi Bohra Community
Dr. Aziz Bhaisaheb Qutbuddin, brother of Syedna Taher Fakhruddin, issued a statement condemning any threats or violence against Justice Patel. The statement noted that Syedna Taher Fakhruddin had filed an appeal against Justice Patel’s judgment, which was expedited in December 2024 and is pending final hearing. It added that if reports of threats aimed at pressuring the judge to recant his judgment were accurate, such acts were meant to malign the Syedna and derail the appeal.
What Readers Should Know
- The Bombay High Court has ordered the Maharashtra government to ensure Justice Patel's protection in Mumbai.
- The Union government must report on steps taken to protect the judge's daughter in London.
- The case highlights concerns over judicial safety and the need for robust security measures for judges who deliver sensitive verdicts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the Bombay High Court order protection for Justice Gautam Patel?
Justice Patel faced threats for over ten months after his 2024 judgment in the Dawoodi Bohra succession dispute. The court acted on a PIL filed by bar associations.
What security measures were ordered?
The Maharashtra government was directed to provide protection to Justice Patel in Mumbai. The Union government was asked to report on steps to protect his daughter, who was attacked in London.
What was the reaction of the Dawoodi Bohra community?
Syedna Taher Fakhruddin condemned any threats or violence against Justice Patel and stated that such acts were meant to malign him and derail the appeal against the judgment.