SC Demands Answers on Delhi Lawyer Assault, Orders Police Protection
SC Demands Answers on Delhi Lawyer Assault, Orders Police Protection
The Supreme Court has intervened, demanding a status report from Delhi Police regarding the brutal assault on an apex court lawyer in the capital. Chief Justice orders protection for the victim, raising critical question
The Supreme Court has taken a serious note of an alleged assault on an apex court lawyer in Delhi, demanding a detailed status report from the Delhi Police. On Tuesday, July 14, 2026, a bench led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant directed the police to ensure the protection of the lawyer's life and liberty, emphasizing the gravity of the situation.
The incident involves lawyer Pankaj Sharma, who was reportedly attacked on July 11, sustaining grievous head injuries. Following the assault, Mr. Sharma and his family allegedly faced further threats on July 12. The Supreme Court Bar Association president, senior advocate Vikas Singh, presented photographic evidence of the injured lawyer in court, questioning the safety of ordinary citizens if a Supreme Court lawyer could be targeted in the national capital.
Attorney General R. Venkataramani, present during the proceedings, echoed the concerns, highlighting the serious implications of such an incident. Mr. Sharma has accused the Delhi Police of inaction and dereliction of duty, alleging that the police, influenced by an accused close to a local politician, failed to take appropriate action or provide security.
Despite persistent efforts, an FIR was reportedly filed only for "simple assault," even though the lawyer suffered injuries "dangerous to life." The petition before the Supreme Court underscored a "systemic failure" where law enforcement agencies are accused of deliberately downplaying targeted violence against an officer of the court. It further argued that police inaction directly violates the petitioner’s right to life and personal liberty, guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution.
In response to these grave allegations, the Supreme Court mandated that the status report must be filed by an officer not below the rank of Deputy Commissioner of Police, signaling a high-level inquiry into the matter. This directive aims to ensure thorough investigation and accountability in a case that has shaken the legal fraternity and raised broader questions about public safety and justice.
