Lawyers stage protest, seek stronger protection law

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Members of Gulbarga Bar Association staging protest in Kalaburagi on Tuesday. | Photo Credit: ARUN KULKARNI

Members of the Gulbarga Bar Association staged a protest outside the Deputy Commissioner’s office in Kalaburagi on Tuesday and submitted a memorandum to the district administration, demanding stringent measures to prevent assaults, harassment and murder of advocates and also, the strengthening of the Advocates Protection Act.

The association expressed concern over the increasing instances of attacks, threats and atrocities against advocates who play a crucial role in the judicial system and work to uphold justice and the rule of law.

The agitating lawyers said that the absence of adequate security for advocates has made it difficult for them to discharge their professional responsibilities without fear.

They urged the State government to make attacks, intimidation, harassment and murder of advocates non-bailable offences and provide for stringent imprisonment and heavy penalties for those found guilty.

They also sought the establishment of special courts for the speedy trial of cases involving attacks on advocates, with a stipulated timeframe for their disposal.

Seeking stronger security arrangements, the association demanded the installation of metal detectors and CCTV cameras on the premises of all courts across the State.

The association urged the government to accord priority to the safety of advocates and their professional security and expedite measures to strengthen and implement the Advocates Protection Act without further delay.

Association president S.V. Pasar, vice-president Ananth Jahagirdar, treasurer Manjunath Ginni and joint secretary Rekha Patil were present.

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