In a recent incident that unfolded in Hapur district, Uttar Pradesh, tensions flared between lawyers and police, resulting in a clash that has drawn widespread condemnation. The incident, which led to injuries on both sides, has triggered a wave of protests and strikes by lawyers across the state. The Lucknow bar Association had done lathi charge on police while they were protesting after Hapur Incident.

Background and Incident

The conflict began when lawyers in Hapur staged a protest against the registration of a First Information Report (FIR) against a woman lawyer named Priyanka Tyagi. The FIR was filed after a collision between a motorcycle carrying two policemen and Tyagi’s car. The lawyers demanded the withdrawal of the FIR, and in response, the police allegedly resorted to a lathi charge, or the use of batons, to disperse the protesters. This confrontation reportedly left around 30 advocates injured.

Outcry and Response

The incident immediately caught the attention of various legal bodies, prompting widespread outrage and protests. The Bar Council of Uttar Pradesh swiftly announced a state-wide strike by lawyers to condemn the alleged attack. Lawyers in numerous courts across the state abstained from work, with many demanding strict action against the police personnel involved. The lawyers’ demands included an investigation into the incident, the filing of FIRs against responsible police personnel, and compensation and free treatment for the injured lawyers.

Protests and Strikes

The protest gained momentum as lawyers from different districts joined in solidarity. In Lucknow, lawyers led by the Oudh Bar Association staged a protest, blocking roads and demanding action against the police officers responsible. Similar protests erupted in Prayagraj, where lawyers from various courts, including the Allahabad High Court, came together to express their condemnation. Meanwhile, 22 districts in Western Uttar Pradesh witnessed lawyers boycotting work to show solidarity with their colleagues.

Government Response and Committee Formation

In response to the growing outrage, the Uttar Pradesh government formed a three-member inquiry committee to investigate the incident. The committee, led by the Divisional Commissioner of Meerut, was tasked with examining all aspects of the clash and submitting a report within a week. The Chief Minister’s Office emphasized the government’s commitment to a thorough investigation.

Legal Bodies Condemn the Violence

Prominent legal bodies, including the Allahabad High Court Bar Association and the Supreme Court Bar Association, joined in condemning the police’s alleged use of force against the lawyers. The Supreme Court Bar Association issued a strong statement denouncing the incident as a violation of both the lawyers’ rights and the rule of law. Demands for action against the responsible police personnel were echoed by these associations.

Ongoing Unrest and Future Steps

The protests and strikes continued as lawyers remained steadfast in their demand for justice. Many associations announced that the strikes would continue until the government took decisive action against the police personnel involved. Some associations even extended their strike beyond the immediate incident, calling attention to broader concerns regarding attacks on lawyers and legal professionals in various parts of the state.

Broader Implications

The clash between lawyers and police in Hapur not only highlights a local issue but also raises broader questions about the state of the legal system and the protection of citizens’ rights. The incident underscores the delicate balance between maintaining law and order while respecting individuals’ fundamental rights, especially in situations involving peaceful protests. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of upholding the rule of law and safeguarding the rights of all citizens.

The clash between lawyers and police in Hapur has ignited a firestorm of protests, drawing attention to issues of police brutality and the protection of lawyers’ rights. The incident has prompted legal bodies to unite in their condemnation of the violence and demand accountability for those responsible. As the investigations unfold and protests persist, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of upholding the rule of law and safeguarding the rights of all citizens. The response of legal associations and the government’s inquiry committee reflect a crucial step towards addressing the concerns and seeking justice for all parties involved. As society watches closely, the outcome of this incident could potentially set a precedent for handling similar situations in the future.

As reported Amar Ujala