Gujarat HC judge asks IIT-Gn student to leave courtroom over attire
On April 28, 2026, a significant incident unfolded in the Gujarat High Court when a judge requested a student from the Indian Institute of Technology, Gandhinagar (IIT-Gn), to leave the courtroom due to her attire. The student was present to challenge a semester-long suspension imposed by the institute, which was based on allegations of indiscipline.
Background of the Case
The student, who is in her final semester of a Master’s degree in Social Development, was reportedly suspended for what the institute described as “rude behavior” towards staff and the use of language deemed threatening. The suspension raised questions about the appropriateness of the actions taken by the institute and the implications for the student’s academic future.
The Incident in Court
During the court proceedings, the student appeared wearing jeans and a shirt. The judge, Justice Nizar Desai, expressed his disapproval of her attire, stating, “Everyone has a choice and can exercise it, but it depends upon the place which she is visiting.” He emphasized the importance of maintaining the dignity of the courtroom, referring to it as a “temple of justice.”
Defense of the Student’s Attire
The student’s counsel attempted to defend her choice of clothing, arguing that her attire should not influence the court’s discretion in the case. However, Justice Desai maintained his stance, insisting that appropriate attire is essential when attending court. After the hearing, he reiterated his views to the counsel, stating, “I am sorry, but I consider this (court) a temple of justice and people must maintain its dignity.”
Details of the Suspension
The suspension order from IIT-Gn highlighted the student’s conduct as “unbecoming of an IIT-Gn student.” The petition filed in the high court indicated that the suspension stemmed from an incident involving an accounts officer. The student had expressed her dissatisfaction regarding what she perceived as inadequate grant support for her fieldwork, leading to a confrontation that was interpreted as disrespectful.
Previous Incidents Affecting the Case
Compounding the situation, the student had a prior incident where she was removed from the hostel for allegedly staying in the boys’ hostel. This earlier event seemingly influenced the institute’s perception of her behavior during the recent confrontation, leading to the suspension.
Legal Proceedings and Responses
Following the courtroom incident, the high court issued a notice to IIT-Gn, requiring a response by April 29, 2026. The court allowed for direct service of the notice via email, in addition to the normal modes of service. The matter is set for further hearing on Wednesday.
Implications for the Student
The student’s counsel is seeking the high court’s intervention to allow her to complete her course, which is critical for her academic and professional aspirations. The lawyer also indicated that an apology would be submitted to the institute, as the previous apology had not been deemed sufficient to reflect genuine remorse.
Public Reaction and Discussion
This incident has sparked a broader discussion about the expectations of courtroom decorum and the implications of personal attire in formal settings. Many have weighed in on social media, debating whether the judge’s actions were justified or if they represented an outdated view of professionalism.
Conclusion
The situation raises important questions about the intersection of personal expression and institutional expectations, particularly within academic settings. As the legal proceedings continue, the outcome will likely have significant repercussions not only for the student involved but also for the policies governing student conduct at IIT-Gn and similar institutions.
Note: This article is based on the events reported as of April 28, 2026, and may be subject to updates as the legal proceedings unfold.
