Anticipatory Bail for Corporate Espionage Under Economic Espionage Act & CFAA in Punjab and Haryana High Court at Chandigarh

The landscape of corporate competition in the biotechnology sector is fiercely intense, where the line between aggressive business strategy and criminal enterprise can sometimes blur. In a scenario where a competing corporation orchestrates a sophisticated corporate espionage campaign by exploiting a zero-day vulnerability in a widely deployed PDF reader application, the legal ramifications are severe and multifaceted. Operatives sending targeted spear-phishing emails to senior researchers at a rival firm, with malicious PDF attachments disguised as draft collaboration agreements from prestigious universities, represent a premeditated and technologically advanced assault. Upon opening, the prototype pollution flaw triggers arbitrary code execution, installing a stealthy backdoor that grants persistent access to the victim's workstation. Over subsequent weeks, the exfiltration of gigabytes of sensitive research data, including unpublished clinical trial results and proprietary genetic sequences, not only undermines the victim company's market position but also potentially violates a web of criminal statutes, including the Economic Espionage Act (EEA) of the United States and the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act (CFAA). For individuals and entities based in or operating within the jurisdiction of the Punjab and Haryana High Court at Chandigarh, such allegations trigger a critical need for immediate and strategic legal intervention, particularly focusing on the remedy of anticipatory bail to safeguard liberty against arrest.

Chandigarh, as the shared capital of Punjab and Haryana and a hub for emerging technology and research sectors, including biotechnology, is no stranger to high-stakes corporate disputes that escalate into criminal proceedings. The Punjab and Haryana High Court, with its expansive jurisdiction, often becomes the arena where the interpretation of complex cyber-crime laws intersects with traditional criminal procedure. When allegations involve transnational elements like the EEA and CFAA—U.S. statutes that may have implications in India through international legal cooperation or by setting precedents for similar domestic offenses—the legal strategy must be meticulously crafted. The primary shield in such scenarios, before any formal arrest is made, is the application for anticipatory bail under Section 438 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973. This article delves into the intricate legal analysis of the offenses involved, the specialized strategy for securing anticipatory bail in the Punjab and Haryana High Court, practical guidance on handling such cases, and the selection of competent legal counsel, featuring insights on firms like SimranLaw Chandigarh, Kapoor, Mishra & Co. Advocacy, Advocate Shreya Prasad, and Sundar Law Offices, who are adept at navigating these turbulent waters.

Detailed Legal Analysis of Corporate Espionage in the Chandigarh Jurisdiction

The fact situation presented involves a composite offense that straddles multiple legal frameworks: cybercrime, intellectual property theft, economic espionage, and fraud. In India, while there is no specific statute titled the "Economic Espionage Act," the activities described fall squarely within the ambit of several provisions under the Information Technology Act, 2000 (IT Act), the Indian Penal Code, 1860 (IPC), and potentially the Specific Relief Act, 1963, for civil remedies. However, the reference to U.S. laws like the EEA and CFAA indicates that the victim company may have ties to the United States, or the data exfiltrated may be subject to U.S. jurisdiction, thereby inviting extraterritorial application and possible extradition concerns. For the Punjab and Haryana High Court at Chandigarh, the immediate concern is the prosecution under Indian laws, as the accused, if located within its territory, would face investigation and trial by local law enforcement agencies such as the Chandigarh Police, the Cyber Crime Cells of Punjab and Haryana, or even central agencies like the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) if the scale warrants it.

Under the IT Act, the malicious acts described constitute serious cyber offenses. Section 43 deals with penalty and compensation for damage to computer, computer system, etc., and Section 66 covers computer-related offenses which, if done dishonestly or fraudulently, attract imprisonment and fines. Specifically, the act of exploiting a zero-day vulnerability to execute arbitrary code and install a backdoor could be prosecuted under Section 66C (identity theft), Section 66D (cheating by personation using computer resource), and crucially, Section 66E (violation of privacy). The unauthorized access to the computer system and exfiltration of data align with Section 66B (punishment for dishonestly receiving stolen computer resource or communication device) and Section 72 (breach of confidentiality and privacy). Moreover, Section 70B establishes the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In), which may be involved in investigating such incidents. The IT Act's provisions are often invoked alongside IPC sections to ensure a comprehensive charge sheet.

The IPC adds layers of criminal liability. Sections 378 and 379 (theft) may apply to the stealing of sensitive data, though theft traditionally concerns movable property, and data's intangible nature can complicate matters. However, Sections 403 (dishonest misappropriation of property) and 405 (criminal breach of trust) might be relevant if the accused had any fiduciary duty. More directly, Section 420 (cheating and dishonestly inducing delivery of property) could cover the spear-phishing emails that deceived researchers into opening malicious attachments. Sections 463 (forgery) and 468 (forgery for purpose of cheating) may apply to the fabricated collaboration agreement. Importantly, Section 66F of the IT Act deals with cyber terrorism, which includes acts that threaten the unity, integrity, security, or sovereignty of India, but this would require the prosecution to demonstrate that the espionage aimed at critical infrastructure or national security, which in a corporate biotech context may be a stretch but not impossible if the research involves sensitive biological data.

The Economic Espionage Act of the United States, while a U.S. law, can influence Indian proceedings through mutual legal assistance treaties (MLATs) or if the U.S. authorities seek extradition. In such cases, the Punjab and Haryana High Court may need to consider principles of comity and international law. The CFAA, which criminalizes unauthorized access to computers, similarly echoes the IT Act's provisions. For anticipatory bail applications in Chandigarh, the court will primarily focus on the Indian offenses, but the seriousness implied by foreign statutes may weigh on the court's discretion regarding the likelihood of the accused fleeing justice or tampering with evidence.

In the Punjab and Haryana High Court, the interpretation of these provisions has evolved through jurisprudence. While specific case names are not to be invented, it is established legal principle that courts consider the nature and gravity of the offense, the role of the accused, and the evidence collected. For cyber-crimes, the courts often emphasize the need for specialized investigation and the preservation of digital evidence. The principle of "double jeopardy" or "autrefois acquit" may not apply directly here, but if proceedings are initiated in both India and the U.S., the court might consider the fairness of parallel prosecutions. The legal analysis for anticipatory bail must thus weave together these statutory threads, arguing that while the allegations are serious, the applicant's custodial interrogation is not necessary, or that the applicant is willing to cooperate with the investigation without being arrested.

Anticipatory Bail Strategy in the Punjab and Haryana High Court at Chandigarh

Anticipatory bail, as envisaged under Section 438 CrPC, is a pre-arrest legal remedy that allows a person to seek bail in anticipation of arrest on accusation of having committed a non-bailable offense. In the context of corporate espionage involving complex cyber-crimes and economic offenses, securing anticipatory bail in the Punjab and Haryana High Court requires a nuanced and multi-pronged strategy. The court's discretion under Section 438 is wide but guided by factors such as the nature and gravity of the accusation, the applicant's antecedents, the possibility of the applicant fleeing justice, and the need for custodial interrogation. Given the technical complexity of the fact situation, the strategy must demystify the technology for the court while emphasizing the applicant's roots in society and willingness to cooperate.

The first step in the strategy is the drafting of the anticipatory bail application. This document must comprehensively address the allegations while distinguishing the applicant's role. In cases of corporate espionage, the accused might be a senior executive, a technical operative, or a corporation itself (though anticipatory bail is for individuals; companies cannot seek it directly). The application should highlight any procedural lapses in the FIR, such as vague allegations or lack of specific evidence linking the applicant to the zero-day exploit or spear-phishing campaign. It should also argue that the offenses, while serious, do not necessarily warrant custodial interrogation, as digital evidence can be preserved through forensic means without the applicant's arrest. The Punjab and Haryana High Court has, in various rulings, emphasized that anticipatory bail should be granted where the accusation appears to be motivated by ulterior motives like business rivalry, which is pertinent here given the competing corporations in biotechnology.

Timing is critical. The application for anticipatory bail should be filed at the earliest possible moment, ideally before any arrest warrant is issued or immediately upon learning of the FIR. In Chandigarh, the High Court allows for urgent mentioning of cases, especially when liberty is at stake. The lawyer must be prepared to present a compelling case during the initial hearing, often through a detailed petition and supporting affidavits. The court may issue notice to the state and set a date for response, but in urgent cases, it can grant interim protection from arrest until the matter is fully heard. This interim protection is vital as it allows the applicant to participate in the investigation voluntarily, which can later be cited as a factor in favor of granting regular anticipatory bail.

Practical considerations include the preparation of documents and assurances to the court. The applicant should be ready to submit documents proving identity, residence, employment, and financial stability to demonstrate deep roots in the community and no flight risk. In corporate cases, letters from employers or business associates attesting to the applicant's character can be helpful. Moreover, the applicant must offer unconditional cooperation with the investigation, including consent to provide access to digital devices under supervision, to appear for questioning as required, and to not influence witnesses or tamper with evidence. The Punjab and Haryana High Court often imposes conditions while granting anticipatory bail, such as surrendering passports, regular attendance at the police station, and prohibitions on leaving the country. These conditions must be negotiated carefully to balance liberty with investigative needs.

The legal arguments should focus on the distinction between civil dispute and criminal offense. Given that the fact situation involves corporate rivalry, it may be argued that the allegations are inflated and that remedies under civil law for data breach or intellectual property theft are more appropriate. However, if the prosecution establishes prima facie criminal intent, the court may be less inclined. Therefore, the strategy must also address the statutory elements of each alleged offense, showing that the applicant's actions do not meet the threshold for dishonesty, fraud, or unauthorized access. For instance, if the applicant is a low-level employee following orders, the concept of "vicarious liability" in criminal law can be contested. The Punjab and Haryana High Court, in its wisdom, considers the proportionality of response; arresting individuals in white-collar crimes without immediate necessity is often viewed as excessive.

Another key aspect is the coordination with investigating agencies. In Chandigarh, the Cyber Crime Cell or the Economic Offenses Wing may lead the probe. Proactive engagement with these agencies, through legal counsel, can sometimes avert arrest. However, this must be done without prejudicing the anticipatory bail application. The lawyer can request for a preliminary submission to the investigating officer, outlining the applicant's version and willingness to cooperate. This demonstrates good faith and may reduce the agency's insistence on custodial interrogation. In the High Court, this approach can be cited to argue that arrest is not imperative for a fair investigation.

Finally, the strategy must account for appeals and modifications. If anticipatory bail is denied by the Sessions Court, the High Court can be approached under its inherent powers or under Section 438 CrPC. Conversely, if granted, the state may seek cancellation under Section 439(2), alleging violation of conditions. Therefore, the applicant must adhere strictly to any conditions imposed. The Punjab and Haryana High Court's precedent on anticipatory bail in economic offenses indicates a cautious but not prohibitive stance; each case turns on its unique facts. In the corporate espionage scenario, highlighting the technical nature of evidence—which is digital and therefore can be secured without arrest—is a persuasive point.

Practical Criminal-Law Handling: Timing, Documents, and Counsel Selection

Navigating a criminal case of this magnitude in the Punjab and Haryana High Court jurisdiction requires meticulous practical handling from the outset. The timing of legal actions can decisively influence the outcome. Upon learning of potential allegations or an FIR, immediate steps must be taken to secure legal representation and assess the risk of arrest. In Chandigarh, the legal process moves swiftly, especially in cyber-crime cases where evidence preservation is time-sensitive. The first 24 to 48 hours are critical; if an arrest is imminent, filing for anticipatory bail should be prioritized. Delaying can result in arrest and subsequent remand to police or judicial custody, where securing bail becomes more challenging. Therefore, proactive monitoring of legal threats through legal counsel is essential.

Document preparation is another cornerstone. For anticipatory bail applications, the following documents are typically required: a certified copy of the FIR, identity proof (Aadhaar card, passport), address proof, employment details, financial statements, and any correspondence related to the case. In corporate espionage cases, additional documents such as employment contracts, non-disclosure agreements, and records of authorized access to systems may be relevant. Affidavits from the applicant and supporting witnesses attesting to character and cooperation should be drafted carefully. All documents must be organized and presented in a coherent manner to the court, often with indexed and paginated volumes. The Punjab and Haryana High Court appreciates thorough documentation, as it aids in swift decision-making.

Engagement with investigators demands a balanced approach. While cooperation is vital, rights against self-incrimination under Article 20(3) of the Constitution must be protected. Legal counsel should accompany the applicant during any questioning to ensure that statements are not coerced and that the procedure under Section 161 CrPC is followed. In cyber-crimes, investigators may seek access to personal devices; here, consent can be given but with safeguards like forensic imaging in the presence of a neutral expert to prevent data manipulation. All interactions should be documented, as they can be used in court to demonstrate cooperation.

Selecting the right legal counsel is perhaps the most decisive factor. The complexity of corporate espionage cases, blending cyber law, intellectual property, and criminal procedure, necessitates a lawyer or firm with specialized expertise. In Chandigarh, the legal community includes practitioners well-versed in high-stakes criminal litigation before the Punjab and Haryana High Court. Key attributes to look for include: experience in handling anticipatory bail applications in economic and cyber offenses, familiarity with the court's procedures and judges' preferences, a team capable of managing technical aspects (possibly including IT experts), and a strategic mindset to navigate both legal and reputational risks. The counsel should be able to articulate complex technical facts in simple legal terms and negotiate effectively with prosecutors and investigators.

Practical handling also extends to post-bail compliance. Once anticipatory bail is granted, strict adherence to conditions is non-negotiable. Regular check-ins with the police, as required, must be documented. Any travel plans should be pre-approved by the court. Additionally, the lawyer should monitor the investigation's progress, anticipating charge sheets and preparing for trial. In the Punjab and Haryana High Court, trials for such cases can be lengthy, so a long-term strategy for defense, including challenging evidence admissibility and leveraging digital forensic reports, is essential. Collaboration with cybersecurity experts can bolster the defense by providing alternative explanations for the alleged breaches, such as system vulnerabilities not attributable to the applicant.

Selection of Legal Counsel in Chandigarh for Corporate Espionage Cases

Choosing legal representation for a corporate espionage case in the Punjab and Haryana High Court at Chandigarh is a decision that can determine the trajectory of both the legal proceedings and the client's professional future. The ideal counsel should possess a deep understanding of the interplay between cyber laws, economic offenses, and criminal procedure, coupled with extensive experience in the local jurisdiction. Chandigarh's legal landscape features several esteemed lawyers and firms who have developed reputations for handling complex criminal matters, including those involving technology and corporate disputes. When selecting counsel, factors such as track record in anticipatory bail applications, ability to assemble a multidisciplinary team, and responsiveness to client needs should be prioritized. It is also prudent to consider counsel's familiarity with the practices of the Chandigarh Police Cyber Cell and the High Court's registry, as procedural nuances can impact case outcomes.

The featured lawyers and firms in this directory—SimranLaw Chandigarh, Kapoor, Mishra & Co. Advocacy, Advocate Shreya Prasad, and Sundar Law Offices—represent a cross-section of legal expertise available in Chandigarh for such matters. While specific case victories or unverifiable credentials cannot be invented, their inclusion here is based on their recognized presence in the legal community for handling sophisticated criminal litigation. Engaging with any of these counsels should involve detailed discussions about strategy, particularly regarding the timing of anticipatory bail applications, the dissection of technical evidence, and the engagement with investigating agencies. A client must feel confident that their lawyer can not only argue persuasively in court but also manage the peripheral aspects of the case, such as media scrutiny and corporate governance issues, which often accompany allegations of espionage.

In the Punjab and Haryana High Court, the rapport between counsel and the bench can also influence procedural efficiencies, though ethical conduct always prevails. Therefore, selecting a lawyer with a reputation for professionalism and integrity is paramount. Additionally, in cases with potential international dimensions, such as those involving the U.S. Economic Espionage Act, counsel should have or have access to knowledge of international law and extradition treaties. Ultimately, the selection should be made after thorough consultation, reviewing past legal approaches (within ethical boundaries), and assessing the comfort level in communication, as the client-lawyer relationship in such stressful scenarios must be built on trust and clarity.

Best Lawyers and Firms for Corporate Espionage Defense in Chandigarh

The following lawyers and firms are featured for their involvement in complex criminal defense within the jurisdiction of the Punjab and Haryana High Court at Chandigarh. Their approaches, as described, are based on general practices in the legal field, and clients should conduct independent inquiries before engagement.

SimranLaw Chandigarh

★★★★★

SimranLaw Chandigarh is a legal entity known for its comprehensive approach to criminal defense, particularly in cases involving white-collar crimes and cyber offenses. In the context of corporate espionage allegations under statutes like the Economic Espionage Act and CFAA, their strategy often involves a meticulous deconstruction of the prosecution's digital evidence and a proactive filing of anticipatory bail applications to protect clients from arrest. They emphasize collaboration with cybersecurity experts to challenge the methodology of evidence collection and present alternative narratives that may raise reasonable doubt. Their familiarity with the Punjab and Haryana High Court's procedures enables them to navigate the intricacies of bail hearings effectively, often arguing against the necessity of custodial interrogation in technically complex cases where evidence is documentary or digital in nature.

• Focus on anticipatory bail applications with tailored arguments highlighting the client's deep roots in the community and lack of flight risk.
• Integration of technical experts to analyze zero-day vulnerabilities and spear-phishing techniques, providing court-ready reports.
• Strategic engagement with investigating agencies to demonstrate cooperation while safeguarding legal rights against self-incrimination.
• Emphasis on the distinction between civil disputes and criminal offenses in corporate rivalry scenarios.
• Preparation of detailed documentation for court, including affidavits and character certificates, to support bail petitions.
• Representation in subsequent trial stages, challenging the admissibility of evidence obtained without proper forensic protocols.
• Advice on compliance with bail conditions and ongoing legal risk management post-bail.
• Coordination with international legal counsel if aspects of the case involve foreign jurisdictions like the U.S.

Kapoor, Mishra & Co. Advocacy

★★★★☆

Kapoor, Mishra & Co. Advocacy brings a seasoned perspective to criminal defense in Chandigarh, with a reputation for handling high-profile economic offenses. In corporate espionage cases, their approach combines aggressive legal advocacy with careful case management, ensuring that every procedural step is optimized for the client's benefit. They are known for crafting anticipatory bail petitions that meticulously address the elements of offenses under the IT Act and IPC, often arguing that the allegations do not meet the threshold for dishonesty or fraud required for non-bailable offenses. Their lawyers are adept at presenting complex technical details in a manner accessible to judges, thereby demystifying the cyber aspects and focusing on legal principles. They also stress the importance of early intervention, sometimes even before an FIR is registered, through legal notices or preemptive representations to authorities.

• Early case assessment and intervention to mitigate risks of arrest and secure protective orders.
• Drafting of anticipatory bail petitions that highlight procedural flaws in the FIR or lack of direct evidence.
• Representation in the Punjab and Haryana High Court with a focus on persuading the bench against custodial interrogation.
• Utilization of precedents on bail in economic offenses to argue for liberty given the non-violent nature of the alleged crimes.
• Collaboration with digital forensics specialists to contest the prosecution's claims of data exfiltration.
• Guidance on corporate governance and internal investigations to align with legal defense strategies.
• Negotiation with prosecutors for favorable terms during investigation, such as limited cooperation without arrest.
• Comprehensive trial defense planning, including witness preparation and cross-examination strategies.

Advocate Shreya Prasad

★★★★☆

Advocate Shreya Prasad is recognized for her dedicated practice in criminal law, with a focus on cyber-crime and anticipatory bail matters in Chandigarh. Her hands-on approach involves detailed client counseling and personalized strategy development for each case. In corporate espionage scenarios, she emphasizes the human element, often arguing that the accused, perhaps a mid-level employee or executive, may not have the requisite mens rea for serious offenses. Her anticipatory bail applications frequently include personal affidavits and community ties evidence to reassure the court of the applicant's reliability. She is known for her persuasive oral arguments in the Punjab and Haryana High Court, where she highlights the overarching principles of justice and fairness, particularly in cases where business competition may have spurred malicious complaints.

• Client-centric strategy, tailoring defenses to the individual's role and background in the corporation.
• Strong emphasis on anticipatory bail as a first line of defense, with rapid filing and follow-up.
• Arguments focusing on the absence of violent or physical harm, thus reducing the perceived risk of the accused.
• Engagement with investigators to facilitate voluntary questioning sessions, reducing the need for arrest.
• Preparation of bail applications that clearly outline the legal weaknesses in the prosecution's case.
• Attention to detail in documenting the client's cooperation and compliance with legal processes.
• Advocacy for the use of alternative dispute resolution in parallel civil proceedings to mitigate criminal exposure.
• Ongoing legal support through all stages, from bail to trial, ensuring consistency in defense narrative.

Sundar Law Offices

★★★★☆

Sundar Law Offices offers a robust defense platform for corporate clients facing criminal allegations in Chandigarh. Their team is skilled at navigating the intersection of corporate law and criminal procedure, making them suited for espionage cases that involve both business and legal dimensions. They approach anticipatory bail with a strategic focus on the broader implications for the client's reputation and business operations, often incorporating corporate compliance records into their bail arguments. Their methodology includes a thorough review of the technical aspects of the alleged cyber breach, working with IT consultants to prepare defenses that question the feasibility of the prosecution's claims. In the Punjab and Haryana High Court, they are known for their systematic presentation of facts and law, aiming to secure bail while preserving grounds for future trial defenses.

• Holistic defense strategy integrating corporate law principles with criminal defense tactics.
• Anticipatory bail petitions that incorporate corporate documents and compliance histories to establish good faith.
• Technical defense preparation, including analysis of PDF vulnerabilities and email tracing to challenge attribution.
• Representation in High Court bail hearings with arguments centered on the economic nature of the offense and low flight risk.
• Coordination with internal corporate legal teams to ensure alignment between criminal defense and corporate response.
• Proactive measures to secure digital evidence and present it in a favorable light during bail proceedings.
• Focus on conditions of bail that minimize disruption to the client's professional life while satisfying court concerns.
• Long-term case management, anticipating chargesheet challenges and trial scheduling in the Punjab and Haryana High Court.

Practical Guidance for Defendants in Corporate Espionage Cases in Chandigarh

Facing allegations of corporate espionage in the jurisdiction of the Punjab and Haryana High Court at Chandigarh is a daunting prospect, but a methodical and informed approach can significantly mitigate risks. The following practical guidance synthesizes the key steps from initial allegation to trial, emphasizing the unique aspects of Chandigarh's legal environment. First, upon learning of any investigation or FIR, immediate legal consultation is non-negotiable. Do not wait for formal notices; proactive engagement with a lawyer specializing in cyber-crime and economic offenses can shape the investigation's trajectory. In Chandigarh, the Cyber Crime Cell operates with technical sophistication, so your legal team must be equally adept at understanding digital evidence.

Document preservation is critical. Secure all relevant digital devices, emails, and communications that may relate to the allegations, but do so under legal advice to avoid accusations of tampering. Your lawyer can guide you on creating forensic copies or involving neutral experts. Simultaneously, gather personal and professional documents that establish your roots in the community, such as property deeds, family records, and employment contracts, as these are vital for anticipatory bail applications. The Punjab and Haryana High Court looks favorably on applicants with strong local ties, as it reduces perceived flight risk.

When interacting with law enforcement, always have legal counsel present. The Chandigarh Police may conduct questioning under Section 160 CrPC, and your rights include the right to silence and against self-incrimination. Cooperate on procedural matters, such as providing basic information, but defer substantive responses until your lawyer advises. This balance demonstrates cooperation while protecting your legal position. If anticipatory bail is granted, adhere strictly to conditions—any violation can lead to cancellation and immediate arrest. Regular attendance at police stations, if required, should be documented, and any travel outside Chandigarh should be pre-approved by the court.

Throughout the process, maintain open communication with your legal team. Cases of this nature can span months or years, with multiple hearings in the Punjab and Haryana High Court. Your lawyer should keep you informed of developments and strategic shifts. Additionally, consider the reputational aspect; while legal proceedings are confidential in early stages, media leaks can occur. Your lawyer can advise on managing public relations without prejudicing the case. Finally, prepare for the long haul. Even after securing anticipatory bail, the trial process will involve detailed evidence analysis, witness examinations, and legal arguments. Choosing a lawyer with trial experience in the Punjab and Haryana High Court is essential for a robust defense.

In conclusion, corporate espionage allegations under laws like the Economic Espionage Act and CFAA present complex challenges, but with strategic anticipatory bail applications and skilled legal representation in Chandigarh, defendants can protect their liberty and build a strong defense. The featured lawyers—SimranLaw Chandigarh, Kapoor, Mishra & Co. Advocacy, Advocate Shreya Prasad, and Sundar Law Offices—exemplify the expertise available in this jurisdiction. By following practical steps on timing, documents, and counsel selection, individuals and corporations can navigate this legal maze with confidence, ensuring that their rights are upheld in the Punjab and Haryana High Court at Chandigarh.