Thiruvananthapuram: The lawyers protection act has once again come into focus in Kerala after the elderly parents of two advocates were allegedly attacked by a litigant. Following the incident, the Kerala High Court Advocates’ Association (KHCAA) has demanded the immediate enactment of a law to protect lawyers and their families from threats, intimidation, and violence. The association has also announced several steps to push the proposed legislation forward.
Details of Lawyers Protection Act
According to reports, the incident took place in Ernakulam on the evening of August 13. The parents of two lawyer-siblings were allegedly attacked by a litigant who was unhappy that the advocates had appeared against him in a case filed by his wife. The accused allegedly targeted the family in retaliation for the legal proceedings.
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Reports indicate that two men entered the residence of the advocates’ parents and allegedly threatened the family.
The elderly father, around 80 years old, was reportedly dragged outside the house and seriously injured during the attack. His condition was reported to be critical. The mother also sustained injuries.
KHCAA Demands Immediate Lawyers Protection Act
In response to the incident, the Kerala High Court Advocates’ Association held an urgent General Body meeting on August 14. During the meeting, members unanimously resolved to work toward the immediate enactment of the Lawyers Protection Act in Kerala. The association said advocates must be able to perform their professional duties without fear of threats, intimidation, or retaliation.
Association To Hold Statewide Consultations
The KHCAA decided to convene a joint meeting of Presidents and Secretaries of Bar Associations across Kerala.
The objective is to build consensus and create momentum for the proposed legislation that would provide legal safeguards to advocates while discharging their professional duties.
Five-Member Committee Constituted
The association has also authorized its Executive Committee to create a five-member committee.
This committee will draft proposals, engage with government authorities, coordinate with Bar Associations across Kerala, and take steps to advance the proposed law.
Why Is The Lawyers Protection Act Being Demanded
Lawyers’ organizations across India have been seeking a dedicated protection law for several years.
Supporters argue that advocates often face threats, violence, intimidation, and retaliation because of the cases they handle. They believe a special law would help ensure lawyers can represent clients independently and fearlessly.
Several states have already discussed or introduced advocate protection measures, while bar bodies continue to push for broader legal safeguards.
KHCAA Condemns Attack On Lawyers’ Family
The KHCAA strongly condemned the attack and assured complete support to the affected advocates and their family. The association stated that no lawyer should face threats or retaliation because of professional responsibilities. It emphasized that protecting advocates is essential for maintaining the rule of law and access to justice.
Police Action In The Case
Police have registered a case against the accused individuals in connection with the attack. The case reportedly includes serious charges related to attempted murder, criminal intimidation, trespass, and causing injuries with dangerous weapons under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Investigations are continuing.
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