Vandana Gupta Occupies District Judge’s Chair in Varanasi Court, Sparks Hour-Long Drama Before Police Intervention

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A routine Friday morning at the Varanasi District Court took an unexpected turn when a woman walked into the courtroom, occupied the district judge’s chair, and began conducting proceedings as if she were presiding over the court herself. The unusual scene left lawyers stunned, triggered a security response, and quickly became the center of discussion across the court premises.

The incident unfolded around 9 a.m. on Friday when court activities were beginning for the day. According to eyewitnesses, the woman confidently entered the courtroom and took a seat on the district judge’s chair. Moments later, she reportedly struck the gavel and loudly declared, “Order, order,” drawing the attention of lawyers, court staff, and visitors present in the courtroom.

What initially appeared to be an isolated act of confusion soon developed into a full-scale disruption. Witnesses said the woman introduced herself as the judge for the day and instructed lawyers to present witnesses and evidence. She reportedly told those present that all cases would be heard by her and that anyone with official work should approach her directly.

The courtroom atmosphere quickly shifted from surprise to concern. Lawyers who were present at the time said they were taken aback by the confidence with which the woman addressed the court. Some began recording videos of the incident on their mobile phones, attempting to document the unusual events unfolding before them.

However, the woman reportedly reacted angrily when she noticed she was being filmed. Lawyers then tried to persuade her to leave the judge’s seat, but she refused to comply and continued sitting in the chair. Her persistence prolonged the disruption and prevented normal proceedings from taking place.

As the situation escalated, court authorities called for assistance from female police personnel. After efforts to convince her to leave voluntarily failed, police intervened and escorted her out of the courtroom. She was subsequently taken into custody and brought to the Cantonment Police Station for questioning.

The entire episode lasted for nearly an hour, according to individuals familiar with the matter. During that period, normal courtroom activity was affected as officials focused on restoring order and ensuring the safety of those present.

Authorities later identified the woman as Vandana Gupta. Initial reports indicated that she does not currently have any active case pending before the court. Court insiders also claimed that this was not the first time she had entered the judicial premises and occupied the judge’s chair. Sources suggested that similar incidents involving her had occurred on previous occasions, raising concerns about how she repeatedly managed to access a highly restricted area within the court complex.

The incident has reignited discussion about security arrangements inside judicial institutions. Courtrooms, particularly those designated for senior judicial officers, are expected to maintain strict access controls. Legal professionals have pointed out that unauthorized entry into such spaces not only disrupts proceedings but can also undermine the dignity and authority of the judicial system.

While the event may appear unusual, legal experts note that courts are among the most sensitive public institutions in the country. Any breach involving a judicial chamber or courtroom is treated seriously because it can affect public confidence in the administration of justice. The fact that the woman was reportedly able to sit on the district judge’s chair and remain there for a significant period has prompted questions about existing security protocols.

Notably, reports suggest that the district judge was on leave on Friday, a circumstance that may have contributed to the confusion surrounding the courtroom environment at the time. Nevertheless, legal observers argue that the absence of a judicial officer should not create an opportunity for unauthorized individuals to access restricted spaces.

Police and court authorities are expected to examine the circumstances that led to the incident and determine whether additional measures are required to prevent similar occurrences in the future. Investigators may also seek to understand the motivations behind the woman’s actions and whether any mental health or other personal factors played a role in the episode.

For many lawyers present that morning, the incident was unlike anything they had witnessed before. What began as an ordinary court day transformed into an extraordinary spectacle that highlighted both the vulnerabilities and the importance of maintaining discipline within one of the country’s most respected institutions.

As videos and accounts of the incident continue to circulate, the episode has become a talking point far beyond the courtroom, drawing attention to the delicate balance between public access to justice and the security measures required to protect the integrity of the judicial process.