The Gujarat High Court recently imposed a fine of Rs 50,000 on a litigant for contempt of court after he was caught smoking during a virtual hearing. The court deemed the act as intentional and disrespectful, which it stated undermined the dignity of the judiciary. Despite the litigant’s assertion of having a personality disorder, he acknowledged his wrongdoing and accepted the penalty. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of decorum and respect during legal proceedings, whether in-person or virtual. Such behavior not only reflects poorly on the individual but also erodes the public’s trust in the justice system. The Gujarat High Court’s swift action in penalizing the litigant sets a clear precedent that such actions will not be tolerated. This case highlights the need for all participants in legal proceedings to adhere to the highest standards of conduct to maintain the integrity and credibility of the judicial process.