Shimla, Apr 21,
Tensions between the legal fraternity and the police in Shimla eased on Monday evening after swift disciplinary action was taken against a police constable accused of assaulting a young advocate in public.
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The Shimla Bar Association, joined by members of the Himachal Pradesh High Court Bar Association, called off their day-long protest after the errant officer was suspended and senior police officials assured a thorough inquiry into the incident.
According to the Bar Association, the altercation began when a police jawan on traffic duty allegedly lost his temper after an advocate questioned him over a traffic jam. The situation quickly escalated, culminating in the public assault of the advocate — an incident that triggered widespread outrage among lawyers across the city.
Earlier in the day, hundreds of lawyers boycotted court proceedings and staged a protest march from the Himachal Pradesh High Court to the Chotta Shimla Police Station. Demonstrators raised slogans, blocked the busy Circular Road, and demanded immediate suspension of the personnel involved — particularly those from the Chotta Shimla Police Station.
The protest brought judicial work at the High Court to a complete standstill. The lawyers also insisted on the presence of senior police officials at the protest site to address their grievances.
Responding to the situation, Shimla Superintendent of Police Sanjeev Gandhi and Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) arrived at the protest site and assured the gathering of appropriate action. Addressing the lawyers, SP Gandhi stated, “I do not approve of the police personnel’s action. Due caution will be taken, and after a thorough investigation, appropriate action will be initiated.” He openly condemned the conduct of the officer in question.
Following the suspension of the officer and assurances from senior police officials, the protest was peacefully withdrawn by the Bar Association. In a statement, the Association welcomed the prompt response but emphasized that it would continue to monitor the investigation to ensure justice is delivered.
Meanwhile, the city witnessed major traffic disruptions, with the Circular Road remaining jammed for hours due to the protest rally.
