A court-monitored independent inquiry, preserved CCTV footage and binding guidelines for policing peaceful assemblies: these are among the reliefs sought by the Lawyers’ Association For Constitution in an Article 32 petition over alleged police excesses, assault, abuse and unlawful detention of advocates, women, juveniles and journalists during protests on 10 and 11 October.
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New Delhi: Alleging police excesses against advocates during the Delhi protests of 10 and 11 October 2026, the Lawyers’ Association for Constitution (LAFC) has moved the Supreme Court under Article 32 of the Constitution. The allegations are those of the petitioners. They are untested, and no response from the Delhi Police or the Government is available. [Lawyers’ Association for Constitution and Others, writ petition under Article 32]
The petition has been filed through Advocate-on-Record Pyoli. The petitioners are the LAFC, represented by its Convenor, Senior Advocate Anjana Prakash, and four of its member advocates, Fidel Tom, Sumita Hazarika, Anna Oommen and Anne Mathew. The Bench and listing date are not available.
What the petitioners ask for
The petitioners seek an independent, time-bound inquiry monitored by the Court, preservation of CCTV footage and other evidence, and disclosure of detention records. They also ask for enforcement of safeguards for detainees, women and juveniles, accountability for the police personnel and supervisors involved, and directions on the legality of the internet suspension and the protection of journalists.
Further, the petition seeks binding guidelines for policing peaceful assemblies, compensation for the alleged violations of rights, and protection against retaliation for peaceful protest or for approaching the Court.
What the petition alleges
The petition alleges assault, abuse and unlawful detention of advocates, women, juveniles, journalists and passers-by. It also alleges denial of access to legal assistance and medical aid, and failure of police personnel to display identification, and it challenges the suspension of mobile internet services.
According to the petition, Advocate Fidel Tom was allegedly assaulted in custody at Sanjay Colony Police Station and denied timely legal and medical aid. Advocates Sumita Hazarika, Anna Oommen and Anne Mathew were allegedly manhandled and forcibly detained during a peaceful march on 10 October.
Constitutional footing
The petitioners rely on Articles 14, 15, 19, 21 and 22 of the Constitution and on the safeguards laid down in D.K. Basu v. State of West Bengal.
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Case Details: Lawyers’ Association for Constitution and Others, writ petition under Article 32; case title, number, Bench and listing date not available.
Appearances: Filed through Advocate-on-Record Pyoli.
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Lawyers’ Association for Constitution moves Supreme Court under Article 32 alleging police excesses against advocates during Delhi protests and seeking an independent inquiry.