Supreme Court Bar Body Condemns Arson Attack On Nepal’s SC

Supreme Court Advocates-on-Record Association

The Supreme Court Advocates-on-Record Association on Friday voiced “deep grief and anguish” over the violent attack on Nepal’s judiciary, where protesters set fire to parts of the Supreme Court premises in Kathmandu.

The attack, described as a brazen assault on one of Nepal’s most respected institutions, has drawn strong condemnation from the Indian legal community.

Strong Statement Condemning Violence

Led by Advocate Vipin Nair, SCAORA passed a strongly-worded resolution denouncing the incident. The association emphasized that while public grievances must be addressed through democratic dialogue, violence against the judiciary cannot be tolerated.

The resolution stated, “While the concerns of the people are to be addressed by the Government through dialogue and democratic means, such an attack on the highest judicial institution of Nepal, which embodies and upholds the rule of law, is strongly condemned.”

The statement, issued by SCAORA Secretary Nikhil Jain, further expressed sorrow over the destruction caused by the arson. He noted the irretrievable loss of decade-old judicial records, including those housed in the office of the Attorney General, underscoring the long-term impact of the attack.

Solidarity With Nepal’s Judiciary & Citizens

SCAORA extended its support to Nepal’s Supreme Court judges, legal fraternity, staff members, and citizens amid the ongoing turmoil. The association assured that it stands in solidarity during these turbulent times and offered prayers for the safety and well-being of all affected.

“We pray and hope for the safety and well-being of all, and for peace to prevail at the earliest. We also draw strength from the resilience of the Nepalese people, who we are confident will emerge stronger from this adversity,” the resolution read.

Context

The attack on Nepal’s Supreme Court occurred amid an unprecedented wave of political unrest sweeping the country. The violence persisted even after Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli resigned from office, failing to calm the growing unrest.

In addition to the Supreme Court, protesters also targeted other key institutions, including the Parliament building, the President’s Office at Maharajgunj, and the Prime Minister’s residence at Baluwatar, further escalating concerns over law and order in the Himalayan nation.