Introduction
Humans embraced civilization in the pursuit of justice. In ancient times, the powerful were the arbiters of justice. But as society progressed, we learned to depend on fairness, law, and an established judiciary. Yet today, a dangerous reality looms before us — “Mob Justice”. When public pressure influences court verdicts, the question arises:
“If a High Court verdict can be changed through mob pressure, what purpose does the High Court serve?”
This question doesn’t merely express anger or despair — it demands deep introspection from the state, society, and legal system.
What is Mob Justice?
Mob justice refers to emotionally driven, unlawful actions where an angry crowd takes the law into their own hands to punish someone they believe is guilty. In such cases, there is no room for due process, evidence, reasoning, or legal proceedings.
This form of “justice” arises from:
- Sudden emotional outrage,
- Rumors and misinformation,
- Social or political tension,
- And often — bias and violence.
Purpose of the Court and Judiciary
In a civilized state, the judiciary means:
- A neutral institution that delivers justice,
- Where evidence is examined,
- Where both parties are heard,
- And where justice is delivered based on law, not emotion.
The High Court and Supreme Court do more than deliver verdicts — they set legal precedents, guide future rulings, and ensure justice at the highest level.
What Happens When Mobs Take Over Justice?
If mobs begin dispensing justice, several dangerous outcomes arise:
1. Innocent People Suffer
A person accused of wrongdoing might not actually be guilty — yet mobs declare them guilty and punish them, often fatally.
2. The Rule of Law Collapses
If mobs replace courts, the judiciary becomes symbolic and ineffective.
3. Rumors and Misinformation Spread
A single false post can enrage a crowd — for example, a religious controversy on social media can lead to mob violence.
4. Social Instability Increases
If someone falls victim to a mob today, anyone could be next. This leads to fear and insecurity in society.
5. Risk of Political Manipulation
Some groups may deliberately incite mobs to serve political interests — not justice.
Is Influencing the Judiciary Justified?
This is a crucial question. In high-profile cases, public protests and media coverage often pressure the courts.
But if verdicts are influenced by emotions and crowd pressure, then where is the space for law and reason?
That is not justice — it’s a popular judgment, driven by emotion, not fairness.
Then Why Do We Need Courts?
The answer is simple and vital.
Courts represent order, logic, evidence, and justice.
Mobs represent chaos, emotion, rumor, and rash decisions.
We need courts because:
- We want truth, not revenge,
- We want proof, not assumptions,
- We want reason, not noise.
What Should Be Done?
State’s Responsibilities:
- Enforce strong laws against mob justice,
- Ensure an independent, impartial judiciary,
- Educate people about legal consequences.
People’s Responsibilities:
- Trust the legal system and avoid rumors,
- Demand justice through evidence, not outrage,
- Never consider someone guilty until the legal process is complete.
Conclusion
“If mob pressure can change a High Court verdict, what purpose does the High Court serve?”
This question reflects a deep societal crisis.
Justice is not established through shouting — it is founded on logic, proof, and law.
If mobs replace courts, we return to an uncivilized era — where power ruled, not justice.
We must choose:
Do we want a nation governed by law, or ruled by chaos?
