The Delhi High Court has annulled an FIR that stemmed from a disagreement between friends, stating that the matter had been amicably resolved. The court directed the two implicated individuals to engage in community service at a hospital in Manipur as part of the resolution. The decision was based on the observation that both the complainant and the accused continued to maintain their friendship without any existing grievances.

Justice Prateek Jalan, in an order issued on August 21, remarked that it was fitting to make the cancellation of the FIR conditional upon the performance of community service and the payment of expenses. Specifically, both accused individuals were instructed to undertake community service, comprising six sessions of two hours each, at the Regional Institute of Medical Science in Manipur.

The court also mandated that the two friends report to the hospital’s medical superintendent, who would assign them appropriate duties. The completion of the community service is to occur within two months from its initiation. Following their service, a compliance certificate will be provided by the medical superintendent to be presented in court.

Background of the FIR

The order was issued while approving a plea that sought the cancellation of an FIR registered at Dabri Police Station in Delhi. The FIR was filed in March of the previous year, based on a complaint from an individual who alleged that he was living in a rented apartment with a friend when the two accused forcibly entered and assaulted them. The complainant described an incident where one individual was reportedly kicked and punched, leading to a head injury after falling onto a kitchen slab.

However, the court noted that the FIR did not mention the use of any firearms or sharp objects, nor did it allege any separate actions intended to cause the reported head injury. During the proceedings, the court was informed that the parties had reached a settlement without facing coercion or undue pressure, having signed a settlement deed as evidence of their agreement.

The complainant further informed the court that he had fully recovered from the injury and was not experiencing any lasting effects. Both parties maintained that they remained friends and had no unresolved issues. This context played a significant role in the court’s decision to annul the FIR.

Implications of the Court’s Decision

In his ruling, Justice Jalan indicated that the quarrel was rooted in a dispute between friends, which had been resolved shortly after the FIR’s registration. He expressed that continuing with the criminal proceedings would not serve a valuable purpose and would likely exacerbate discord between the involved parties.

The court underscored that justice would be more effectively achieved by bringing an end to the legal proceedings. It specified that the two men were also required to collectively contribute Rs 10,000 to the Delhi High Court Bar Association within two weeks of the order.

Through this ruling, the court illustrated a commitment to restorative justice, focusing on resolution and community service rather than punitive measures. This approach aims to foster reconciliation among individuals involved in minor disputes, particularly when amicable solutions have been attained.

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