Delhi Lawyers Strike Against Police Attack on Advocate

In a significant development, lawyers in Delhi are set to observe a strike on November 4, 2023, in response to a disturbing incident involving a Ghaziabad advocate. This decision comes after reports surfaced that the advocate was allegedly attacked by police on the premises of the court. The Bar Associations of Delhi have united to express their outrage and demand justice for the affected lawyer.

The Coordination Committee of all bar associations convened an urgent meeting on Sunday, where they unanimously agreed to abstain from work. Atul Kumar Sharma, the Honorary Secretary of the Delhi Bar Association, emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, "This heinous act of violence against a member of the bar cannot be tolerated. We stand united in demanding justice and accountability." The lawyers are calling for all members of the legal community to join in this protest against police brutality.

The incident that sparked this strike occurred on October 29, when violence erupted in the Ghaziabad district court complex. Reports indicate that lawyers clashed with police, who had been summoned by the District Judge to manage a flash protest by the advocates. This protest was reportedly triggered by chaotic events during a court hearing. Disturbing videos circulated on social media, showing police officers carrying chairs and wielding canes, which only fueled the outrage among the legal community.

As a result of the unrest, damage was inflicted on a police post within the District and Sessions Court complex located in the Raj Nagar area. In anticipation of further protests, police have established a security perimeter around the District Judge's court. A representative from the Bar Council of Uttar Pradesh noted that this incident marks the second occurrence of police high-handedness in just two years, recalling a similar event earlier in 2023 when lawyers in Hapur faced lathi charges during a protest.

This strike not only highlights the ongoing tensions between the legal community and law enforcement but also raises critical questions about the treatment of advocates in the judicial system. The lawyers' call for solidarity is a powerful reminder of the importance of justice and accountability in maintaining the integrity of the legal profession. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how authorities will respond to these demands and whether meaningful changes will be implemented to prevent such incidents in the future.