Did the Delhi HC Just Quash FIR Against AAP Media Coordinator After Apology?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Delhi High Court quashes FIR
- Unconditional apology accepted
- Importance of conflict resolution
- Costs imposed for police engagement
- Promoting accountability in political media relations
New Delhi, Sep 30 (NationPress) The Delhi High Court has dismissed an FIR against Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) media coordinator Vikas Kumar Yogi after he issued an unconditional apology to a journalist following an incident that occurred outside the party office in May 2024.
A single-judge bench led by Justice Amit Mahajan ordered the AAP official to contribute Rs 25,000 to the Delhi Police Martyrs’ Fund as part of the costs.
Justice Mahajan was evaluating a petition from Yogi seeking the annulment of the FIR registered at the I.P. Estate police station under Sections 323, 341, 506, 509, 427, 149, and 34 of the IPC, based on a complaint from a senior reporter who had come to the AAP office to cover a story regarding alleged foreign funding.
The FIR claimed that Yogi allegedly confronted the journalist, and at his instigation, 8 to 10 party members attempted to seize the camera, encircled the complainant and her cameraperson, and pushed them toward the gate while shouting derogatory slogans.
Nevertheless, the Delhi High Court was informed that both parties had amicably resolved their conflict through a settlement deed in June 2025, conducted without any pressure or coercion.
The court noted, "The petitioner asserts that he has unconditionally apologized for his actions. He also pledges not to engage in similar behavior in the future."
The journalist accepted the apology, informing the Delhi High Court that she had no further complaints.
"When asked, the respondent confirmed she has no remaining grievances against the petitioner and is satisfied with the apology. She expressed her desire not to pursue any proceedings related to the current FIR and has no objection to it being entirely quashed," the order mentioned.
While quashing the FIR, Justice Mahajan remarked that continuing the case would be futile, stating, "No useful purpose would be served by keeping the dispute alive, and the continuation of the proceedings would constitute an abuse of the court's process."
However, noting that police resources had already been engaged, Justice Mahajan imposed costs on Yogi.
"The ends of justice would be served if the petitioner is made to bear costs," the Delhi High Court stated, directing Yogi to pay Rs 25,000 to the Delhi Police Martyrs’ Fund within eight weeks and provide proof to the concerned SHO.