The coordination committee of all Delhi Bar Associations has recently unanimously decided that lawyers will abstain from work on November 4, 2024.
This decision comes in the wake of a troubling incident where a lawyer in Ghaziabad was allegedly attacked at the direction of the district judge.
Advocate Jagdeep Vats, a representative of the committee, vehemently condemned the police’s actions, particularly the lathi charge against lawyers within the courtroom. He deemed this behavior unacceptable, emphasizing the need for respect and safety within legal proceedings.
Earlier, the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) expressed its outrage at the alleged violence perpetrated by police against advocates in the Ghaziabad court. The SCBA characterized this incident as a grave violation of both rights and the rule of law. It criticized the actions of the Uttar Pradesh Police, specifically highlighting the unacceptable conduct allegedly ordered by District and Sessions Judge Anil Kumar, which jeopardizes the integrity of the judicial system.
In light of these events, the SCBA made it clear that it would not tolerate any attacks on the dignity of lawyers. The association has called upon the Allahabad High Court and the Uttar Pradesh Government to take swift action in response to the situation. The SCBA demands a thorough inquiry into Judge Anil Kumar’s conduct, to be conducted by a sitting judge of the Allahabad High Court, including both the Chief Justice and the Administrative Judge responsible for Ghaziabad.
Furthermore, the SCBA has called for the immediate dismissal of Judge Anil Kumar and the police officers involved in the lathi charge incident. The association is also demanding compensation for the injured advocates, reflecting a strong commitment to justice for those affected by this incident.
To prevent similar occurrences in the future, the SCBA is advocating for protective measures for advocates and their families, including the enactment of the Advocates Protection Act. This initiative aims to create a safer environment for legal professionals, ensuring they can perform their duties without fear of intimidation or harassment.
In a show of solidarity, the SCBA has urged the Bar Council of India and all State Bar Councils to take necessary steps to safeguard the rights of advocates. They insist on ensuring that lawyers can carry out their responsibilities without facing threats to their safety.
The SCBA stated its unwavering support for the advocates in Ghaziabad, pledging to do everything within its power to ensure that justice is served and that such incidents are addressed with the seriousness they deserve. The upcoming work abstention on November 4 serves as a collective stand against injustice and a demand for accountability within the judicial system.
