'Withdraw False Cases Lodged Against Advocates & Ensure Harmony At The Bar': BCI Writes to DGP, Chhattisgarh

The Bar Council of India has written to the Director-General of Police Chattisgarh to withdraw false criminal cases lodged against advocates immediately. The development arises after an episode of manhandling of Advocates by the Staff and Officials of Tehsil Office, Rajagarh. 

Signed by the Chairman, Mr. Manan Kumar Mishra, the communication by the BCI notes that the incident took place on account of the corrupt practices prevalent in the Revenue Office, which the lawyer was opposing. As a result of their interference, false cases were lodged against them, and some lawyers were even arrested.

It mentions,

"It is most unfortunate, that, though, the staff of the Tehsil office were aggressor and resorted to manhandle the Lawyers, but they themselves went on a strike and have closed their offices. The innocent Lawyer has been arrested."

It further mentions that lawyers throughout the State are agitated and have complained against the police atrocities on the Lawyers. Emphasizing that the lawyers are being 'harassed and tortured indiscriminately,' the BCI requested the DGP to look into the matter immediately, issue appropriate directions to the officials to withdraw the false cases, and release the lawyers who have been illegally arrested.

It also mentioned that the State Bar Council had been directed to constitute a Fact-Finding Committee to determine whether any lawyer is involved in any aggression to misconduct. If the fact-finding reveals that the lawyers were involved in the misconduct, appropriate disciplinary action will be taken.

It cautioned the DGP to take the matter seriously and ensure amicable settlement, peace, and harmony at the Bar. The BCI has also requested the lawyers of the State to ensure peace and not take recourse to boycott the Courts. The letter notes,

"The peaceful protest is permissible without any provocative act or boycott of the Courts; but, any procession or violation of the Code of Conduct expected from any Advocate or Bar Association shall be viewed seriously by the State Bar Council."

The letter also mentioned that a separate request is being raised before the Chief Minister of the State to look into the matter and issue direction to the Chief Secretary to initiate appropriate disciplinary action against the guilty officials and staff in the Tehsil Office.

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