SCBA Seeks CJI Intervention Over Lawyer Detentions
The Supreme Court Bar Association has urged CJI Surya Kant to intervene after advocates were allegedly detained using excessive force during a protest.
The Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) has made an urgent plea to the Chief Justice of India, seeking immediate intervention following the reported detention of several advocates. The legal body alleges that senior lawyers and women advocates were subjected to excessive police force while participating in a peaceful protest near the Supreme Court premises on Saturday.
Grave Concerns Over Police Conduct
In a formal letter addressed to the Chief Justice, SCBA Honorary Secretary Pragya Baghel highlighted the distressing situation unfolding in the capital. The Association expressed deep worry regarding the safety and whereabouts of the legal professionals who were taken into custody. The SCBA has called upon the authorities to:
- Ascertain the safety and exact location of every detained advocate.
- Ensure immediate access to legal assistance for those in custody.
- Release individuals who were detained without any lawful grounds.
- Investigate the use of force by the police to ensure accountability under the law.
The Association passed a resolution expressing "grave concern" and strongly condemning the actions taken against the members of the bar. The resolution emphasized that the protest was intended to be peaceful and that the crackdown was unwarranted.
Context of the Delhi Protests
The tension in the Supreme Court area coincided with broader demonstrations in Delhi. These protests were linked to a planned demonstration by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) at Jantar Mantar. In anticipation of the unrest, authorities had already implemented significant security measures and made adjustments to public transport arrangements across the city.
CJI Intervenes and Lawyers Released
Following the urgent communication from the SCBA, the Supreme Court Advocates-on-Record Association (SCAORA), and Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, Chief Justice of India Surya Kant took notice of the matter.
The Chief Justice reportedly engaged with the relevant authorities to address the situation. As a direct result of this high-level intervention, reports indicate that the lawyers are now being released from custody.