Woman Occupies Judge’s Chair, Attempts to Conduct Court Proceedings in Varanasi District Court

June 13, 2026 : An unusual security breach at the Varanasi District Court has triggered administrative scrutiny after a woman allegedly entered a courtroom, occupied the judge’s chair and attempted to conduct judicial proceedings herself.

According to court sources, the incident occurred on Friday morning at around 9:00 am in the courtroom of Additional District Judge Yajuvendra Vikram Singh, who was on leave at the time. The woman reportedly entered the court premises, made inquiries about the judge’s arrival, and then proceeded to the judicial dais.

Witnesses stated that she sat on the judge’s chair, handled case files kept on the bench and began acting as the presiding officer. She allegedly struck the desk and announced that court proceedings were underway, directing those present to produce witnesses and evidence before her.

The incident caused considerable disruption within the courtroom and continued for nearly an hour. Court staff, lawyers and other officials reportedly made repeated attempts to persuade the woman to vacate the judicial seat, but she refused and continued asserting her authority.

Police personnel from the Cantt Police Station, including women officers, were eventually called to the scene. The woman was removed from the judicial dais and taken into custody for questioning.

Officials later indicated that her behaviour appeared to suggest possible mental health concerns. Following preliminary inquiry and procedural formalities, she was released and handed over to her family members.

Members of the Varanasi Central Bar Association said the woman is a litigant with a matter pending before the same court and is a familiar presence within the court complex. According to advocates present during the incident, she repeatedly claimed to be the presiding judge and issued directions to those in the courtroom.

After normal court functioning was restored, Additional District Judge Yajuvendra Vikram Singh inspected the courtroom and reviewed the circumstances surrounding the incident. The District Judge has reportedly ordered an internal inquiry and sought explanations from officials responsible for courtroom security and access control.

The episode has raised serious concerns regarding security arrangements within the district judiciary, particularly how an individual was able to access the judicial dais and remain there for an extended period without immediate intervention. Members of the local bar have also alleged that the woman had previously displayed similar conduct within court premises.

The incident is expected to prompt a review of courtroom security protocols and administrative safeguards across the district court complex.