Lawyers’ body stages protest alleging police harassment

Members of the Bezawada Bar Association (BBA) took out a rally in Vijayawada on Tuesday, alleging harassment by the police and condemning what they described as the filing of cases against advocates without adequate evidence. The demonstration brought together practicing lawyers who called for immediate corrective action by the authorities.

Rally in Vijayawada highlights grievances

According to the BBA, lawyers have recently been named in police cases without proper substantiation, a move the association says has created an atmosphere of intimidation within the legal fraternity. Tuesday’s rally was organized to publicly register these concerns and to demand accountability for actions they deem unwarranted.

Key demand: Withdrawal of chargesheet

The association’s immediate demand centered on the chargesheet reportedly opened against advocate Gavaskar. BBA members urged the police to withdraw the chargesheet at once, asserting that it lacked sufficient evidentiary support. They framed the demand as an essential step toward safeguarding the independence of the legal profession and ensuring fair treatment of advocates.

Symbolic submission at Ambedkar statue

As part of the protest, the lawyers submitted a representation at the statue of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. The gesture was intended as a symbolic appeal to constitutional values and the rule of law, underscoring the association’s contention that due process must be rigorously observed in cases involving members of the Bar.

Association’s allegations

The BBA alleged that police actions against advocates have proceeded “without proper evidences,” characterizing the registration of cases as a form of harassment. Association members contended that such measures undermine the professional integrity and independence of lawyers, and called for an immediate halt to practices they believe contravene legal standards.

What’s next

The lawyers reiterated their demand for the withdrawal of the chargesheet against advocate Gavaskar and signaled that they would continue to press for redress. They framed their actions as a defense of due process and the dignity of the legal profession. Further steps by the association or responses from the police were not detailed at the time of the rally.

Photo credit: K.V.S. Giri