Court Directs Submission of CCTV Footage and Ensures Security for Victimized Advocates Amidst Allegations of Intimidation by Fellow Lawyers
In a significant development, the Allahabad High Court has taken serious cognizance of allegations concerning the assault and intimidation of advocates and a litigant at the District Court in Lucknow. The bench comprising Justices Rajan Roy and Manjive Shukla was constituted late in the evening to address the emergency application submitted by advocates Abhipsa Mohanty, Komal Agarwal, and Ashutosh Srivastava. The advocates alleged that they were prevented from filing a Vakalatnama and faced physical assault by a group led by Advocate Saurabh Kumar Verma.
The incident reportedly occurred during proceedings related to Suit No. 2933 of 2025, where the applicants were representing the plaintiffs. Allegations included manhandling of the advocates and the plaintiff, Mohd. Shakir, within court premises. The High Court expressed grave concern over the interference in judicial proceedings and directed immediate investigative actions.
The Court ordered the District Judge and Police Commissioner of Lucknow to submit detailed reports and CCTV footage of the incident by the following day. The Court underscored the necessity of maintaining decorum in judicial premises, emphasizing the safety and security of legal practitioners and litigants.
Advocate Ashutosh Srivastava, one of the victims, presented video evidence supporting the allegations during the proceedings. The footage purportedly showed the physical assault, corroborating the applicants' claims.
Addressing the broader implications, the Court acknowledged the recurring nature of such incidents in Lucknow's District Court, prompting previous interventions, including the establishment of a special inquiry cell. The Court highlighted the importance of ensuring that justice is dispensed without fear or interference.
The advocates also expressed concerns over potential bias in the judicial process due to the influence wielded by the accused advocate. As a precautionary measure, the Court considered the possibility of transferring the case to another district, ensuring impartiality and justice.
The bench directed the provision of adequate security for the advocates and the plaintiff, Mohd. Shakir, during their stay in Lucknow. The Court instructed the police to facilitate their appearance in the subsequent hearing.
The matter is scheduled for further hearing on July 22, 2026, at 10:15 AM, where the Court will review the reports and footage provided by the District Judge and Police Commissioner.
Statutory provision(s): Criminal Law, Order 39, Rule 1 & 2 of the CPC
Anil Kumar Khanna v. State of U.P., (Allahabad)(Lucknow)(DB) : Law Finder Doc id # 2945353
