Public Interest Litigation Exposes Disturbing Incidents of Vandalism by Individuals Posing as Lawyers, Court Directs Immediate Police Action
In a significant development, the Allahabad High Court, Lucknow Bench, has ordered an inquiry into a concerning incident involving individuals dressed as lawyers allegedly engaging in hooliganism and vandalism. The order came in response to a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by advocate Saksham Singh, highlighting a serious breach of law and order at a disputed premises in Lucknow.
The PIL, numbered 682 of 2026, was heard by Justices Rajan Roy and Manjive Shukla on July 22, 2026. The petitioner, Saksham Singh, appearing in person, presented evidence, including video clips circulated on social media, showing individuals in lawyer attire trespassing into a property used for cricket practice and marriage functions. The footage allegedly depicted these individuals abusing staff, damaging property, and breaking CCTV cameras.
The court expressed grave concern over the passive role of police personnel present during the incident, as recorded in the First Information Report (FIR) lodged by Smt. Manorama Mishra. The FIR named several advocates, including Amit Mishra, Rahul Shukla, and others, as involved in the unlawful activities. It was alleged that the police not only failed to take timely action but also appeared to treat the transgressors in a friendly manner.
The bench directed the Commissioner of Police, Lucknow, to conduct a thorough inquiry into the incident, emphasizing the need for accountability among police officials who were on the scene. The court ordered senior police officials, including the Joint Commissioner of Police and the Deputy Commissioner of Police, to appear before the court for further proceedings.
Additionally, the court mandated the preservation of evidence, including video footage, in a sealed cover to ensure its integrity. The Commissioner of Police was instructed to ensure the petitioner's security, given the sensitive nature of the allegations and the potential threat posed by the accused individuals.
The case is set to be heard again on July 23, 2026, with directives for senior police officials to provide a detailed explanation of their actions during the incident. The court's swift response underscores the seriousness of the allegations and the need to uphold the integrity of the legal profession and law enforcement.
Bottom line:-
Public Interest Litigation filed by a practicing advocate alleging hooliganism and vandalism by individuals in the attire of lawyers, trespassing into a disputed premises, and the passive role of police personnel raises serious concerns about law enforcement and the integrity of the legal profession.
Statutory provision(s): Public Interest Litigation, First Information Report (FIR)
Saksham Singh v. State of U.P., (Allahabad)(Lucknow)(DB) : Law Finder Doc id # 2945355
