Criminal Justice " Actor Pankaj Tripathi Says, ‘Anyone Can Be a Criminal’

Pankaj Tripathi, known for his impeccable comic timing and powerful performances in serious films like Masaan, Kaagaz, and Main Atal Hoon, has carved a special place in the hearts of the audience. His unique talent has earned him a strong presence both in Bollywood and on digital platforms (OTT).

 After the massive success of the first three seasons of Criminal Justice, fans were eagerly waiting for the fourth. Recently, Season 4 was released, and Pankaj Tripathi spoke in an exclusive interview about the new season and his character. Here’s what he had to say:

 Now that you're returning with Season 4 of this series, how different or special does it feel? What can the audience expect this time, and how important is this season for you?

It's amazing and impactful—that’s why I’m a part of it. The script is very strong and full of twists. This season offers not just a crime investigation, but also a thrilling experience. The story includes the audience's point of view, and as it progresses, that perspective will evolve.

 Usually, court cases involve two lawyers, but this time a third enters the scene. How does this twist affect the story?

Exactly! It’s like a match where suddenly a third player jumps in. Normally, it’s two lawyers—one for the defense and one for the prosecution—but this time there’s a third lawyer, and that’s where the twist lies.

 When a team like Applause Entertainment is backing the content, how supportive and inspiring is the environment for an actor? What’s your experience been like?

It's been a fantastic experience. Criminal Justice was one of Applause’s earliest shows, and also one of the first shows for Hotstar during the early days of OTT in India. This was my third OTT show back then. I've been around since the early phase of OTT, and I’ve worked across nearly all platforms.

 Madhav Mishra’s character evolves in each season—what’s the biggest challenge he faces this time?

His biggest challenge is the opposing lawyer who has studied abroad, while Madhav is a street-smart lawyer from Patna. The real challenge is holding his ground and surviving against her. Their dynamic in the courtroom is engaging and entertaining because they come from completely different worlds.

 What makes Season 4 of Criminal Justice stand out from other courtroom dramas?

Because it’s already a very popular series. The characters and stories are highly relatable—that’s why we’re now at Season 4. While other dramas may focus only on serious debates, here, Madhav Mishra’s character brings an added layer of satire and humor. It’s like Jolly LLB, which had humor in the courtroom. In our case, there’s more humor outside the courtroom—in Madhav's personal life—which keeps the audience engaged. A smile on your face helps you pay better attention.

 This time Surveen Chawla and Zeeshan are also part of the cast. How was the experience working with them?

Surveen plays a very sensitive and vulnerable character. Zeeshan is my junior and a fantastic actor. They’re the backbone of the story—it’s their case. We’re just the lawyers fighting it.

 In the past, when people thought of a criminal, they often imagined a man. Do you think this perception is changing? Are women now becoming a vital part of crime narratives too?

Crime shouldn’t be seen through the lens of gender. Yes, it’s true that women are naturally more compassionate, more empathetic—but immorality can exist in anyone. Gender can’t define that. Statistically, there are fewer female criminals, but a criminal can be anyone.

 What steps should our country take to actually reduce crime?

First, every individual must take responsibility. Freedom doesn't mean doing anything we like. If we live with self-discipline, the burden on courts will automatically reduce. Increasing the budget for art and culture would also help. If children are taught poetry, music, dance, and acting from a young age, it can shape society positively. The purpose of art is to improve society, and a better society means a lighter judicial load.

 For your information, Pankaj Tripathi has previously acted in films like Run, Bareilly Ki Barfi, Fukrey 3, Stree 1 & 2, OMG 2, Super 30, Luka Chuppi, Dilwale, Main Atal Hoon, and Mimi.

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