LoP Mahant backs lawyers’ protest over safety concerns

Raipur: Chhattisgarh Assembly Leader of the Opposition Charandas Mahant has announced support for the Raigarh District Bar Association’s ongoing agitation over lawyers’ safety and security.

Mahant criticised the state government, alleging a deterioration in law and order and questioning the administrative capability of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). He said it was a serious concern that lawyers working within the legal system were unsafe, and asked how ordinary citizens could expect protection in such circumstances.

Referring to a recent case, Mahant said a tribal woman advocate was brutally murdered in the home district of the chief minister and finance minister, and expressed concern that police had not made a breakthrough even days after the incident.

He also questioned Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai over the delay in implementing the Advocates Protection Act, citing rising instances of harassment and attacks on lawyers and calling for a stringent law to ensure legal professionals can work without fear.

Mahant demanded strict action against the accused in the advocate’s murder, a fast-track trial seeking capital punishment, immediate implementation of the Advocates Protection Act across Chhattisgarh, and acceptance of the Bar Association’s legitimate demands without political delay.