The Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) on Monday strongly condemned the alleged brutal assault on advocate Pankaj Sharma, calling it an attack on the institution of justice and raising serious concerns over the handling of the investigation.
In a resolution passed by its Executive Committee, the SCBA said it was "deeply concerned" and "unequivocally condemns the brutal physical assault" on Sharma, a senior member of the Bar, who was allegedly attacked by his neighbour at his residence on July 11. The association said the incident left Sharma with serious injuries but alleged that the investigation had failed to adequately reflect the gravity and nature of the assault.
The Bar body expressed concern that an advocate of the Supreme Court had allegedly been subjected to violence, intimidation and continued threats without adequate protection from law enforcement authorities. It said such incidents strike at the foundation of the rule of law and undermine public confidence in the justice system.
Calling the incident an attack on the institution of justice, the SCBA said an attack on an advocate is not merely an attack on an individual but on the justice delivery system itself.
The association also questioned the investigation, alleging that the FIR did not include offences relating to the grievous injuries sustained by Sharma or the alleged attempt on his life despite the seriousness of the incident. It further claimed that repeated complaints had not resulted in effective action against those responsible and that Sharma and his family had not been provided meaningful police protection.
The SCBA said the alleged failure to provide prompt and effective police action in the case raised concerns about the ability of ordinary citizens to secure protection under the law.
The association urged the Delhi Police Commissioner to immediately review the investigation, ensure that all offences disclosed by the facts and medical evidence are thoroughly investigated, and take prompt legal action against everyone allegedly involved in the assault, criminal intimidation and any attempt to interfere with the probe.
It also demanded immediate and adequate police protection for Sharma and his family so they could pursue legal remedies without fear, intimidation or coercion.
Reaffirming its support, the SCBA said it stands firmly with Sharma and will extend all necessary assistance to him in pursuing justice following the alleged attack.
