In an extraordinary and urgent intervention, the Allahabad High Court convened a special Bench at 7 PM to hear allegations concerning the assault of three advocates, including two women lawyers from Delhi, within the premises of the Lucknow District Court. The Court treated the matter with utmost seriousness, observing that allegations of violence and intimidation within court premises strike at the very heart of the justice delivery system and cannot be ignored.
The incident reportedly occurred when the advocates travelled to Lucknow to represent a client in an ongoing legal dispute. According to submissions made before the High Court, the lawyers had arrived at the district court to file their vakalatnama and participate in the proceedings. However, it was alleged that they were prevented from doing so by certain individuals associated with the local legal community.
The petitioners claimed that their client was physically assaulted inside the court premises and that they were attacked when they attempted to intervene. The women advocates further alleged that they were threatened, verbally abused, and obstructed from discharging their professional duties. These allegations, if proven, would constitute a serious infringement not only of individual rights but also of the independence and functioning of the legal profession.
The matter assumed greater urgency after one of the advocates brought the issue to the attention of the Supreme Court shortly before the conclusion of its proceedings. She informed the Court that she and her client had allegedly been assaulted inside the Lucknow District Court and expressed concerns regarding their safety. Given the gravity of the allegations, the matter was directed to be taken up before the Allahabad High Court.
Acting promptly, the Chief Justice constituted a special Bench to hear the matter on the same day at 7 PM. The Court observed that issues involving the administration of justice, especially allegations of violence within court premises, require immediate attention and cannot be delayed on procedural grounds.
During the hearing, the High Court examined material placed before it, including video footage purportedly depicting the incident. The Bench observed that the footage prima facie appeared to indicate that a physical altercation had taken place within the court complex. While refraining from making final findings at this preliminary stage, the Court noted that the allegations warranted an immediate and thorough investigation.
The High Court emphasized that courts must remain safe spaces for advocates, litigants, and members of the public. It observed that any attempt to intimidate lawyers or prevent them from appearing on behalf of their clients undermines the constitutional promise of access to justice. The right of a litigant to engage counsel of choice and the corresponding right of advocates to practise their profession freely are essential components of the legal system.
The Bench further remarked that the allegations were particularly disturbing because they involved women advocates. Courts are institutions where all individuals, irrespective of gender, must feel secure while carrying out their professional responsibilities. The judiciary, therefore, has an obligation to ensure that court premises remain free from violence, harassment, and intimidation.
The Court also took note of concerns regarding recurring incidents affecting the functioning of courts in the region. It observed that any pattern of unlawful conduct within judicial institutions requires immediate corrective measures to preserve public confidence in the justice delivery mechanism.
To ascertain the facts, the High Court directed the District Judge, Lucknow, to submit a detailed report on the incident. The Court specifically sought the preservation and examination of CCTV footage from the court premises so that the sequence of events could be independently verified. Judicial authorities were instructed to identify the individuals allegedly involved and provide a factual account of the incident.
In addition, the Court directed the Commissioner of Police, Lucknow, to furnish a report regarding the matter. Senior police officials were asked to assist the Court by explaining the steps taken in response to the allegations and providing information concerning any criminal antecedents of the individuals named in the proceedings.
Recognizing the immediate concerns regarding safety, the High Court ordered that adequate security be provided to the advocates involved in the case. The Bench observed that allegations involving threats and physical violence necessitated interim protective measures to ensure that the advocates could continue to participate in legal proceedings without fear.
The Court also directed that the client who was allegedly assaulted be produced before it so that his statement and circumstances could be examined. This direction reflects the Court's intention to conduct a comprehensive inquiry into all aspects of the incident before determining the appropriate course of action.
The case has generated considerable concern within the legal fraternity. Advocates occupy a critical role in the administration of justice, serving as intermediaries between litigants and courts. Any environment in which lawyers face intimidation or violence not only affects individual practitioners but also undermines the effective functioning of judicial institutions.
Legal experts have observed that the High Court's swift response sends a strong message regarding the judiciary's commitment to maintaining the sanctity of court premises. Violence and coercion have no place in institutions established to uphold the rule of law. Ensuring the safety of advocates and litigants is fundamental to preserving public trust in the justice system.
The proceedings are expected to continue following the submission of reports by judicial and police authorities. The findings arising from the CCTV footage and official inquiries will likely play a significant role in determining the next steps. Depending on the outcome of the investigation, the Court may issue additional directions aimed at ensuring accountability and strengthening security measures in court complexes.
In conclusion, the Allahabad High Court's decision to hold an urgent evening hearing over the alleged assault on women lawyers at the Lucknow District Court reflects the seriousness of the issues involved. By directing immediate investigations, seeking CCTV evidence, and ordering security protection for the advocates concerned, the Court has reaffirmed that acts of violence and intimidation within judicial institutions will not be tolerated. The case serves as a powerful reminder that courts must remain secure, impartial, and accessible spaces where justice can be pursued without fear or obstruction.
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