Supreme Court Bar Association Denounces Police Brutality Against Advocates in Hapur, Uttar Pradesh
The Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) has passed a resolution on 30th August 2023, vehemently condemning the violent and ‘inhumane’ actions of the police against advocates who were protesting in Hapur, Uttar Pradesh. The resolution pointedly states,
“women advocates were also not spared from the brutality. The lathi charge on the advocates, who were protesting peacefully against the alleged high-handedness of the police, is a clear violation of their rights and the rule of law.”
The incident in question saw lawyers, including Advocate Priyanka Tyagi, protesting against what they claim was a false case filed against Tyagi. The situation escalated when the police reportedly resorted to a lathi charge, resulting in several advocates sustaining injuries ranging from minor to severe.
In its resolution, the SCBA has outlined a series of demands directed at the Uttar Pradesh Government, urging them to:
- Promptly investigate the incident and ensure that the police officers responsible face justice.
- Officially censure the officers involved in the lathi charge.
- Provide compensation to the injured advocates.
- Implement measures to prevent such incidents in the future.
- Introduce the Advocates Protection Act to safeguard advocates and their families from similar brutal incidents.
- Enhance the law and order situation in the state, holding police personnel accountable for their actions.
Furthermore, the SCBA has called upon the Bar Council of India (BCI) and all State Bar Councils to take proactive measures to protect advocates, ensuring they can fulfill their professional duties without facing intimidation or harassment.
In a show of solidarity and in response to the incident, the Bar Council of Uttar Pradesh announced a state-wide strike. They have urged the government to act against the police officers involved and compensate the injured lawyers. The State Bar Council has also warned that if meaningful action isn’t taken, they will convene an emergency meeting on 3rd September 2023 to discuss further strategies.
Adding to the chorus of support, the High Court Bar Association Allahabad declared an abstention from work on 30th August 2023. They have also appealed to the Chief Justice to refrain from passing any adverse orders due to the non-appearance of lawyers in light of the incident.
This incident and the subsequent reactions underscore the pressing need for a safer environment for legal professionals, emphasizing the importance of upholding the rule of law and ensuring justice is served.
