Delhi High Court Mandates 24/7 Police Protection for Lawyer After Courtroom Assault
The Delhi High Court has issued a significant directive ordering the police to provide round-the-clock security to a lawyer who was allegedly assaulted inside a courtroom at the Tis Hazari court complex while proceedings were actively underway. This decisive action comes in response to an incident that has raised serious concerns about safety within judicial premises.
Bench Expresses Grave Concern Over Judicial Dignity
A special bench comprising Chief Justice D K Upadhyaya and Justices V Kameswar Rao and Nitin Sambre emphasized that such an occurrence not only poses a direct threat to individual legal practitioners but also fundamentally undermines the dignity and propriety of the courts. The bench explicitly noted that if such an incident did occur, it constitutes a matter of utmost seriousness requiring immediate intervention.
The court has formally sought detailed reports from both the Delhi Police and the District Judge of Tis Hazari to ascertain the full circumstances surrounding the alleged assault. The lawyer in question had previously expressed genuine fear regarding his personal safety following the incident, prompting the judicial intervention.
Security Directive and Ongoing Review
In its ruling, the High Court has directed the Deputy Commissioner of Police (North) to implement immediate security measures for the affected lawyer. This protection is to remain in effect for the present time and will be subject to a formal review after a period of ten days. The review will be based on a comprehensive threat assessment conducted by the authorities.
Furthermore, the court has called upon the Delhi Bar Association of Tis Hazari, the Police Commissioner of Delhi, and the DCP (North) to formally present their stands on the matter. This step indicates the court's intention to address systemic issues and ensure accountability.
Legal Proceedings and Investigative Measures
During the proceedings, Additional Solicitor General Chetan Sharma informed the bench that any potential misconduct identified could be examined by the disciplinary body of the Bar Council. Representing the police, Standing Counsel Sanjay Lau assured the court that appropriate action is being taken in response to the incident.
The DCP (North) informed the court that the police will coordinate a meeting with the District Judge to conduct a thorough review of the existing security protocols within the Tis Hazari court complex. To ensure a transparent and effective investigation, the High Court has mandated that the probe into the assault be conducted by an Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) under the direct supervision of the DCP (North).
This case highlights critical issues of safety for legal professionals and the sanctity of courtrooms, setting a precedent for how such serious breaches of judicial decorum are addressed by the higher judiciary.
