Police Brutality Sparks Outrage: Advocates Unite Against Inhumane Treatment 

New Delhi: Outrage has erupted over recent reports of harsh treatment by the police towards protesting advocates in Hapur, Uttar Pradesh. Responding strongly, the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) expressed its strong disapproval of the police conduct. The SCBA assured its full support to the advocates in Hapur and promised to work towards achieving justice for them.  

The SCBA”s statement condemned the police actions, especially the mistreatment of women advocates. The statement noted, “The police”s use of force against advocates who were peacefully protesting alleged police misconduct is a clear violation of their rights and the rule of law.”  

The protest came about due to alleged false charges filed against Advocate Priyanka Tyagi. During the protest, the police used force, causing major and minor injuries to several advocates.   

The SCBA”s resolution listed several immediate steps it urges the Uttar Pradesh Government to take:  

• Conduct a thorough investigation into the incident and hold the responsible police officers accountable. 
• Take prompt disciplinary action against the officers involved in the use of force. 
• Provide compensation to the advocates who were injured during the protest. 
• Put measures in place to prevent similar incidents in the future. 

• Introduce and enforce the Advocates Protection Act to safeguard advocates and their families from such events. 
• Focus on improving the law-and-order situation within the State and ensuring that the police are held responsible for their actions. 

The SCBA also reached out to the Bar Council of India (BCI) and other State Bar Councils, calling on them to take necessary measures to protect advocates from intimidation or harassment. 

The Bar Council of Uttar Pradesh reacted by declaring a statewide strike by advocates in response to the incident. The Council demanded action against the police officers involved and compensation for the injured lawyers. If the situation isn”t addressed satisfactorily, an emergency meeting will be called on September 3, 2023, to discuss further steps. 

In a united gesture, the High Court Bar Association Allahabad decided not to work on August 30, 2023. The Association requested understanding from the Chief Justice regarding non-appearance due to the prevailing circumstances.