Criminal Lawyers for Case in High‑Profile Synthetic Drug Production (NDPS) Cases in Chandigarh High Court

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Understanding the NDPS Act and Its Application to Synthetic Drug Production

The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985, is the cornerstone legislation governing the control of narcotics, psychotropic substances, and their precursors across India. Its provisions are deliberately stringent, reflecting the serious social and health concerns associated with drug abuse and trafficking. When the act addresses synthetic drug production, it classifies certain chemicals, such as precursor substances used in the manufacture of substances like methamphetamine, ecstasy, and novel psychoactive compounds, as controlled under the law. The legislation distinguishes between small‑scale personal use, which may merit lesser penalties, and large‑scale manufacturing, which attracts severe punishments including life imprisonment and hefty fines. In the context of Chandigarh High Court, High‑Profile Synthetic Drug Production (NDPS) Cases often involve intricate forensic analyses, extensive seizures, and complex chain‑of‑custody documentation. Understanding the act’s nuanced definitions—such as "manufacture," "cultivation," and "conspiracy"—is essential for any accused or their counsel. Misinterpretation can lead to procedural missteps that compromise defense strategies. Additionally, the NDPS Act empowers the investigation agencies to conduct searches without prior warrants under certain circumstances, and to detain suspects for prolonged periods. This adds layers of procedural scrutiny, where the role of skilled criminal lawyers becomes pivotal in challenging unlawful searches, ensuring proper evidence handling, and safeguarding constitutional rights. The legislative framework also outlines specific provisions for sentencing, including the consideration of the quantity of narcotics involved, the nature of the offence, and the presence of aggravating factors such as involvement of minors or prior convictions. For defendants in high‑profile cases, the interplay between the statutory provisions, evidentiary standards, and procedural safeguards defines the battlefield within which criminal lawyers for defense in High‑Profile Synthetic Drug Production (NDPS) Cases in Chandigarh High Court must operate.

Beyond the statutory text, the judiciary’s interpretation of the NDPS Act has evolved through a series of landmark decisions that clarify ambiguous provisions. For instance, the Supreme Court has addressed the principle of ‘quantity’ as a determinant of intent, differentiating between personal consumption and trafficking. Moreover, the courts have emphasized the importance of ensuring that the chain of custody for seized synthetic substances is meticulously documented to prevent claims of tampering. In Chandigarh, the High Court has adopted a rigorous approach to reviewing forensic reports, often requiring independent expert testimony to establish the purity and composition of the seized material. This judicial scrutiny underscores the necessity for defense counsel to engage qualified forensic experts who can challenge prosecution evidence effectively. Additionally, procedural safeguards such as the right to be informed of the grounds of arrest, the requirement for a medical examination, and the provision of legal aid for the indigent are enshrined in both the Indian Constitution and the NDPS Act. Criminal lawyers must be vigilant in asserting these rights, particularly in high‑profile scenarios where investigative agencies may be under public pressure to secure convictions. The strategic use of bail applications, pre‑trial motions, and interlocutory appeals can significantly affect the trajectory of the case, potentially mitigating the severe consequences associated with synthetic drug offenses. Understanding these layers—statutory, judicial, procedural—forms the foundation upon which an effective defense is built, highlighting why specialized expertise is indispensable in navigating the complexities of High‑Profile Synthetic Drug Production (NDPS) Cases before the Chandigarh High Court.

The Unique Challenges Posed by High‑Profile Synthetic Drug Cases

High‑Profile Synthetic Drug Production (NDPS) Cases in Chandigarh High Court present a distinct set of challenges that differentiate them from conventional drug offenses. Firstly, the scientific complexity of synthetic substances demands a deep understanding of chemistry and forensic analysis. Synthetic drugs often involve multiple steps of synthesis, each leaving distinct residues that can be traced to specific manufacturing processes. Consequently, the prosecution frequently relies on advanced laboratory reports, chromatographic data, and expert testimonies to establish the nature and intent behind the alleged production. Case lawyers must therefore possess or have access to experts capable of scrutinizing these technical details, identifying potential flaws in sampling methods, analytical techniques, or interpretation of results. A minor procedural lapse—such as improper storage of samples or failure to maintain chain of custody—can be pivotal in raising reasonable doubt. Secondly, the media spotlight that typically accompanies high‑profile cases amplifies public perception, potentially influencing the attitudes of investigative agencies, witnesses, and even judicial officers. This heightened scrutiny can result in aggressive investigative tactics, including extensive searches, prolonged detentions, and pre‑trial publicity that may prejudice the accused. Case attorneys need to adopt strategic communication approaches, filing applications to protect the client’s right to a fair trial, and, where necessary, seeking protective orders to limit the dissemination of sensationalized information. Thirdly, high‑profile cases often involve intricate financial trails, with money laundering, offshore accounts, and complex corporate structures linked to the drug manufacturing network. Tracing these financial linkages requires collaboration with forensic accountants and a command of financial regulations, including the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). Case counsel must be prepared to challenge the admissibility of financial evidence, argue against conjectural connections, and ensure that any seizure of assets conforms to statutory safeguards. Moreover, the involvement of multiple accused parties, ranging from low‑level operatives to alleged masterminds, creates a layered defense scenario where co‑accused testimonies, plea bargains, and cooperation agreements can drastically shift the case dynamics. Skilled criminal lawyers must navigate these negotiations judiciously, balancing the client’s immediate interests against longer‑term legal ramifications. The cumulative effect of scientific, procedural, media, and financial complexities underscores why specialized expertise is essential when confronting High‑Profile Synthetic Drug Production (NDPS) Cases before the Chandigarh High Court.

In addition to the aforementioned challenges, the procedural timeline for NDPS cases is often accelerated due to the perceived urgency of curbing drug trafficking. The investigating agencies may invoke the provisions of Section 10 of the NDPS Act to obtain search warrants without prior judicial approval when immediate action is required, potentially limiting the defense’s opportunity to intervene before the seizure. Moreover, the Act permits the use of “special courts” for the trial of certain NDPS offenses, which can result in a different procedural posture, including stricter evidentiary standards and limits on the scope of cross‑examination. Criminal lawyers for defense in these scenarios must be adept at filing pre‑emptive applications under Article 21 of the Constitution, challenging the legality of searches and seizures, and ensuring that the rights to counsel and a speedy trial are not infringed. The high stakes also attract informants and “turn‑coat” witnesses, whose testimonies may be motivated by promises of leniency or monetary reward. The credibility of such witnesses is a recurring point of contention, and defense counsel must be prepared to rigorously cross‑examine them, expose inconsistencies, and highlight potential biases. In cases where the prosecution's evidence is heavily reliant on electronic data—such as digital logs, communication records, or surveillance footage—defense attorneys must be familiar with the provisions of the Information Technology Act, 2000, and the admissibility standards set out by the Supreme Court in cases like Anvar P. Khan v. State of U.P.. Ensuring that digital evidence meets the criteria of authenticity, integrity, and relevance is critical to preventing wrongful convictions. Collectively, these procedural intricacies demand a lawyer who not only understands criminal law but also possesses interdisciplinary knowledge spanning forensic science, digital forensics, financial regulations, and media law, all of which are indispensable in safeguarding the rights of the accused in High‑Profile Synthetic Drug Production (NDPS) Cases before the Chandigarh High Court.

Choosing the Right Criminal Lawyers for Case in High‑Profile Synthetic Drug Production (NDPS) Cases in Chandigarh High Court

Selecting an adept criminal lawyer for defense in High‑Profile Synthetic Drug Production (NDPS) Cases in Chandigarh High Court is a decision that can profoundly influence the outcome of the case. The first criterion to evaluate is the lawyer’s specific experience with NDPS matters, particularly those involving synthetic narcotics. A practitioner who has previously handled complex NDPS prosecutions will possess a nuanced understanding of the Act’s provisions, the evidentiary standards applied by the courts, and the typical investigative tactics employed by agencies such as the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB). This experiential knowledge translates into the ability to anticipate prosecution strategies, mount effective procedural challenges, and craft persuasive arguments grounded in precedent. Secondly, the lawyer’s network of forensic experts, forensic chemists, and technical consultants is crucial. In synthetic drug cases, where laboratory reports and scientific testimony form the backbone of the prosecution’s case, having reliable access to experts who can critically assess the validity of these reports is indispensable. A seasoned criminal lawyer will have established relationships with reputable labs and professionals who can provide independent analysis, challenge methodology, and highlight inconsistencies. Thirdly, the lawyer’s track record in securing bail and reducing charges in high‑stakes NDPS cases serves as an indicator of their advocacy skills. The ability to navigate bail provisions under Section 37 of the NDPS Act, which imposes stricter conditions, requires strategic argumentation emphasizing factors such as the accused’s personal background, lack of prior convictions, and the prospect of ongoing investigation. Additionally, lawyers who have successfully negotiated plea bargains or reduced sentences under Section 43 of the NDPS Act demonstrate a pragmatic approach that balances the client’s desire for acquittal with realistic legal outcomes. Moreover, the practitioner’s communication style and approach to media management are vital in high‑profile settings. The courtroom narrative and public perception often intersect, and a lawyer who can protect the client’s reputation while maintaining focus on legal defense is invaluable. Finally, assessing the lawyer’s commitment to ethical practice, confidentiality, and a client‑centric approach ensures that the accused receives personalized attention, transparent fee structures, and a clear roadmap of the procedural journey. These combined considerations form a comprehensive framework for identifying the most suitable criminal lawyer for defense in High‑Profile Synthetic Drug Production (NDPS) Cases before the Chandigarh High Court.

Beyond technical expertise, prospective defense counsel should demonstrate a thorough understanding of the procedural landscape specific to the Chandigarh High Court. This includes familiarity with the court’s case management practices, filing deadlines, and the nuances of local rules that may affect the progression of NDPS matters. For instance, the Chandigarh High Court may employ particular forms for filing applications under Section 167 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) for anticipatory bail, or may have unique protocols for presenting forensic evidence during trial. A lawyer well‑versed in these procedural idiosyncrasies can avoid costly delays and procedural pitfalls that might otherwise prejudice the defense. Additionally, the ability to coordinate with investigators and the prosecuting authority can sometimes open avenues for alternative dispute resolution or collaborative evidentiary review, especially in cases where the accused is willing to cooperate with the authorities in exchange for leniency. While such negotiations must be approached cautiously to protect the client’s rights, they can lead to more favorable outcomes, such as reduced charges or conditional bail. Moreover, the lawyer’s skill in drafting comprehensive written submissions—such as detailed affidavits, expert reports, and memoranda of law—enhances the persuasiveness of the defense narrative. The articulation of complex scientific arguments in plain, legally resonant language assists the judge in appreciating the subtleties of the case, thereby improving the prospects for acquittal or mitigation. Lastly, the client should assess the lawyer’s capacity for sustained engagement throughout the often protracted NDPS litigation process. High‑Profile Synthetic Drug Production (NDPS) Cases can span months or even years, encompassing multiple hearings, appellate stages, and potential revisions of forensic evidence. Selecting a lawyer who can commit the necessary time and resources, maintain regular communication, and provide strategic updates ensures that the accused remains informed and empowered throughout the juridical journey.

Procedural Steps in the Chandigarh High Court for NDPS Trials Involving Synthetic Drugs

The procedural trajectory of an NDPS trial involving synthetic drug production before the Chandigarh High Court is both rigorous and highly structured. The process typically commences with the registration of a First Information Report (FIR) by the investigating agency, often the NCB, which outlines the alleged illegal activity, identifies the accused, and details the seized substances. Following the FIR, the police may file a charge sheet under Section 173 of the CrPC, which must contain a comprehensive summary of the investigation, the evidence collected, statements of witnesses, and the forensic analysis reports. The charge sheet is then submitted to the Court, marking the initiation of the judicial phase. Upon receipt, the Court examines the charge sheet for completeness and compliance with statutory requirements, sometimes demanding additional documentation or clarification through a supplementary charge sheet. After the charge sheet is accepted, the court typically issues summons to the accused to appear for the initial hearing. At this stage, the defense may file applications for bail, seeking either regular bail under Section 37 of the NDPS Act or anticipatory bail under Section 438 of the CrPC, depending on whether the accused is already in custody. The High Court evaluates these applications by weighing factors such as the nature and seriousness of the offense, the likelihood of the accused tampering with evidence, and the potential threat to public safety. If bail is granted, the accused is released under specific conditions, which may include surrendering the passport, regular reporting to the police, and no contact with co‑accused. If bail is denied, the accused remains in custody throughout the trial, underscoring the critical importance of a robust bail argument. Subsequent procedural milestones include the framing of charges, wherein the court formally identifies the specific sections of the NDPS Act that the accused will be tried for, and the issuance of notice for the defense to present evidence and arguments. The prosecution then presents its case, calling forensic experts to testify about the nature, quantity, and purity of the seized synthetic substances. The defense follows with cross‑examination, expert rebuttal, and presentation of exculpatory evidence, such as alternative explanations for the presence of chemicals or procedural violations during the seizure. Finally, after both sides have completed their advocacy, the Court delivers its judgment, which may be appealed to the Supreme Court on grounds of legal error, misinterpretation of the NDPS Act, or violation of constitutional rights.

Throughout the procedural journey, meticulous compliance with statutory timelines is paramount. Under Section 167 of the CrPC, the investigation period for NDPS cases can extend up to 90 days, subject to extensions upon approval from the magistrate if sufficient cause is demonstrated. The defense must vigilantly monitor these timelines, as any undue delay by the prosecution could form the basis for filing a petition for discharge due to violations of the accused’s right to a speedy trial under Article 21 of the Constitution. Additionally, the Chandigarh High Court may conduct pre‑trial conferences to streamline issues, narrow down the contested facts, and encourage settlement where appropriate. In high‑profile synthetic drug cases, such conferences can also address concerns about media coverage and the maintenance of decorum in the courtroom. Another critical procedural aspect involves the admissibility of electronic evidence, which must satisfy the criteria of relevance, authenticity, and reliability as laid down in the Supreme Court’s rulings on digital evidence. The defense must ensure that any electronic data—such as intercepted communications, GPS logs, or computer files—has been obtained in accordance with the provisions of the Information Technology Act and the procedure established under the Indian Evidence Act. Failure to meet these standards can lead to the exclusion of pivotal evidence, thereby weakening the prosecution’s case. Finally, the appellate process is an integral part of the procedural framework. Upon receipt of an adverse judgment, the defense may file an appeal under Section 378 of the CrPC to the Chandigarh High Court, or if already before that Court, approach the Supreme Court under Article 136. The appeal must be meticulously drafted, highlighting errors in law, improper appreciation of evidence, or procedural irregularities that infringed upon the accused’s fundamental rights. Each procedural stage demands strategic planning, precise documentation, and a thorough understanding of both substantive and procedural law, reinforcing the necessity for specialized criminal lawyers for defense in High‑Profile Synthetic Drug Production (NDPS) Cases before the Chandigarh High Court.

Building a Strong Case Strategy for Synthetic Drug NDPS Charges

A formidable defense strategy in High‑Profile Synthetic Drug Production (NDPS) Cases rests on three interlocking pillars: procedural safeguards, scientific rebuttal, and narrative construction. The first pillar emphasizes the rigorous enforcement of procedural safeguards enshrined in the Constitution and the NDPS Act. Case counsel must scrutinize every step of the investigative process, from the legality of the search warrant obtained under Section 10 of the NDPS Act to the admissibility of the seized substances. Any deviation—such as a lack of proper notice, inadequate representation during the search, or failure to follow chain‑of‑custody protocols—offers a potent ground for challenging the prosecution’s evidence. Prompt filing of applications under Sections 167 and 167A of the CrPC to contest unlawful detention, as well as petitions for the release of the seized material for independent testing, can erode the prosecution’s evidentiary foundation. The second pillar involves a meticulous scientific rebuttal of forensic findings. Synthetic drug analysis calls upon advanced techniques like Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC‑MS) and High‑Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). Case experts must examine the laboratory’s standard operating procedures, calibration records, and validation protocols to identify potential errors or contamination. By presenting alternative expert testimony—perhaps highlighting that the detected compounds could arise from legitimate industrial processes or that the quantity identified falls below the threshold for culpable intent—the defense can sow reasonable doubt. It is also crucial to question the interpretation of purity levels and the assumption that possession of precursor chemicals equates to intention to manufacture drugs. The third pillar focuses on weaving a coherent narrative that contextualizes the accused’s actions within legitimate, lawful activities. This may involve demonstrating that the chemicals seized were part of a licensed manufacturing unit, licensed research, or a sanctioned pharmaceutical operation. Documenting valid permits, purchase invoices, and employee testimonies can substantiate this claim. Moreover, establishing the accused’s background—such as a clean criminal record, absence of prior involvement in drug-related offenses, and community standing—serves to humanize the defendant and mitigate the perception of malicious intent. A well‑structured defense narrative, reinforced by factual evidence and expert analysis, not only undercuts the prosecution’s story but also aligns with the court’s duty to ensure that convictions are anchored in proof beyond reasonable doubt. When these three pillars are integrated and executed with precision, the prospects of securing acquittal, reduction of charges, or favorable sentencing outcomes are significantly enhanced for individuals facing High‑Profile Synthetic Drug Production (NDPS) Charges in the Chandigarh High Court.

In addition to the core pillars, a comprehensive defense must address ancillary factors that can influence the trial’s outcome. One such factor is the handling of co‑accused testimonies. High‑profile cases often involve multiple defendants, each of whom may be approached by the prosecution with incentives to turn approver. Case counsel must pre‑emptively assess the credibility of such witnesses, probing for inconsistencies, motives for false statements, and procedural lapses in how their statements were recorded. Strategic cross‑examination can reveal contradictions and undermine the weight of their testimony. Another critical consideration is the potential for plea bargaining under Section 43 of the NDPS Act, which allows the court to reduce punishment if the accused offers assistance in uncovering larger drug networks. While this avenue can be advantageous, it must be weighed against the long‑term repercussions of admitting guilt, including the impact on future employability and social stigma. Consequently, the decision to negotiate must be guided by a thorough risk‑benefit analysis, considering the strength of the prosecution’s case, the severity of the alleged offense, and the accused’s personal circumstances. Furthermore, the defense should be prepared to raise constitutional challenges, particularly under Article 21, concerning the right to life and personal liberty. Arguments may center on the alleged disproportionate sentencing guidelines, the adequacy of legal representation provided during the investigation, or violations of the right to a fair trial stemming from media bias. An effective defense will weave these constitutional considerations into the overall strategy, presenting the court with a holistic perspective that transcends the narrow focus on the alleged drug offenses. Lastly, the defense must maintain diligent documentation of all procedural steps, expert communications, and evidentiary materials. A well‑organized file facilitates swift responses to the prosecution’s motions and supports the preparation of robust written submissions. By integrating these supplementary elements into the overarching defense framework, criminal lawyers for defense in High‑Profile Synthetic Drug Production (NDPS) Cases can deliver a nuanced, multi‑dimensional representation that maximally safeguards the client’s legal rights and prospects for a favorable outcome.

Practical Checklist for Accused in High‑Profile Synthetic Drug NDPS Cases

Immediately engage a criminal lawyer with demonstrable experience in NDPS matters, especially those involving synthetic narcotics. The lawyer should possess a solid network of forensic chemists, financial investigators, and digital forensics experts who can independently examine the evidence and challenge the prosecution’s methodology. Early involvement ensures that procedural safeguards are promptly asserted, bail applications are strategically drafted, and potential violations of the accused’s constitutional rights are identified before the prosecution consolidates its case.
Secure and preserve all relevant documents related to the alleged activity, including purchase invoices, licensing agreements, correspondence with suppliers, and any permits for handling chemicals. These documents can substantiate legitimate industrial or research purposes for the seized substances, thereby providing a factual counter‑narrative to the prosecution’s insinuations of illicit manufacturing. Organize these records chronologically and label them clearly for easy reference during the trial.
Request independent forensic testing of the seized materials. The defense should engage a certified laboratory to conduct parallel analysis using techniques such as GC‑MS or HPLC. This independent report can highlight discrepancies in the prosecution’s findings, question the purity levels reported, or demonstrate that the substances identified are not controlled under the NDPS Act in the form presented. Timely submission of these reports can be pivotal in filing motions to exclude or reinterpret the prosecution’s evidence.
Prepare a comprehensive personal background affidavit, detailing education, employment history, community involvement, and any prior clean criminal record. This affidavit serves to humanize the accused, counteract the stigma associated with drug allegations, and can be instrumental in bail hearings or sentencing mitigation. Include supporting documents such as character certificates, tax returns, and letters from reputable community members.
Maintain meticulous records of all police and investigative interactions, including dates, times, officer names, and the content of any statements made. If any statements were recorded without the presence of legal counsel, note these instances precisely, as they may form the basis for challenging involuntary or coerced confessions under Section 24 of the Indian Evidence Act. This documentation also aids the defense in identifying potential procedural irregularities.
Assess and, if necessary, mitigate media exposure. In high‑profile cases, sensationalist reporting can prejudice public opinion and, indirectly, the judicial atmosphere. Counsel should consider filing applications for interim orders restricting the publication of certain details, and advise the accused on cautious communication with the press. Maintaining a low‑profile narrative helps preserve the integrity of the trial process.
Explore financial implications early. If assets have been seized under the provisions of the NDPS Act or the PMLA, collaborate with a forensic accountant to trace the source of funds, verify the legality of transactions, and contest unjust asset freezes. A clear financial audit can demonstrate that the accused’s wealth stems from legitimate business operations, reducing the risk of additional charges for money laundering.
Develop a timeline of events related to the alleged offense, supported by corroborating evidence such as emails, delivery receipts, or GPS logs. This timeline assists the defense in constructing a coherent narrative, exposing inconsistencies in the prosecution’s version, and identifying gaps where reasonable doubt may arise.
Stay informed about procedural deadlines, including the filing of the charge sheet, the expiry of the investigation period, and dates for bail or anticipatory bail applications. Missing a deadline can result in forfeiture of critical rights, so maintain a calendar with alerts and work closely with counsel to ensure compliance.
Prepare for potential plea negotiations, but only after a thorough assessment of the evidence strength, potential sentencing outcomes, and personal ramifications of a guilty plea. Engage in candid discussions with counsel regarding the pros and cons of accepting a reduced charge versus pursuing a full acquittal, taking into account the long‑term impact on personal and professional life.

Sample Argument Illustrating Key Case Points

“Your Honor, the prosecution’s case rests heavily on laboratory reports that, while technically sound, fail to meet the stringent standards of reliability required under Section 65B of the Indian Evidence Act. The chain‑of‑custody documentation exhibits multiple gaps—specifically, the absence of a signed log for the transfer of the seized substances from the field to the forensic laboratory. Moreover, the GC‑MS analysis does not conclusively differentiate between the controlled synthetic compound alleged and a legally permitted industrial intermediate commonly used in legitimate pharmaceutical manufacturing. Our independent expert, Dr. Sharma, a certified forensic chemist with over two decades of experience, has reproduced the analysis and found that the detected peaks correspond to a non‑controlled precursor, thereby undermining the prosecution’s assertion of intent to manufacture a prohibited narcotic. In addition, the arrest was effected without the presence of legal counsel, contrary to the provisions of Section 167(2) of the CrPC, raising substantial doubts about the voluntariness of the statements recorded. Therefore, we respectfully submit that the evidence presented is insufficient to establish guilt beyond reasonable doubt, warranting either an outright acquittal or, at the very least, a dismissal of the charges pertaining to synthetic drug production.”

Conclusion: Safeguarding Rights in High‑Profile NDPS Defenses

Defending an individual accused of synthetic drug production under the NDPS Act in the Chandigarh High Court demands a fusion of legal acumen, scientific insight, and strategic foresight. The intricate statutory framework, coupled with the procedural rigor of high‑profile investigations, creates a landscape where every procedural misstep or evidentiary weakness can become a decisive factor in the outcome. By engaging criminal lawyers for defense in High‑Profile Synthetic Drug Production (NDPS) Cases who possess specialized expertise, a robust network of experts, and a proven track record of navigating the complexities of the NDPS regime, the accused can ensure that their constitutional safeguards are vigorously protected. From meticulous pre‑trial bail applications and rigorous challenges to forensic evidence, to the crafting of a compelling narrative that contextualizes the alleged conduct within legitimate activities, each element of the defense contributes to the overarching goal of securing justice. The practical checklist and sample argument provided herein serve as concrete tools for both defendants and their counsel, facilitating proactive preparation and effective courtroom advocacy. Ultimately, the convergence of procedural diligence, scientific scrutiny, and strategic narrative construction offers the strongest shield against wrongful conviction, underscoring the paramount importance of specialized legal representation in high‑stakes synthetic drug NDPS matters before the Chandigarh High Court.