Swift Action Eases Tensions Between Shimla Lawyers and Police
Tensions between Shimla’s legal community and the police eased on Monday evening after quick disciplinary action was taken against a police constable accused of publicly assaulting a young advocate. The Shimla Bar Association, supported by the Himachal Pradesh High Court Bar Association, ended their day-long protest following the suspension of the officer and assurances of a thorough investigation from senior police officials.
The incident began when a traffic police officer allegedly lost his temper after an advocate questioned him about a traffic jam, leading to a public altercation that sparked outrage among lawyers across the city.
Earlier in the day, hundreds of lawyers boycotted court proceedings and marched from the Himachal Pradesh High Court to the Chotta Shimla Police Station, demanding the immediate suspension of the involved personnel. The protest halted judicial work at the High Court and caused significant traffic disruptions on Circular Road.
Shimla Superintendent of Police Sanjeev Gandhi and Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) arrived at the protest site, assuring the lawyers of appropriate action and condemning the officer’s conduct. Following these assurances, the Bar Association peacefully withdrew the protest but emphasized their commitment to monitoring the investigation to ensure justice.
The city experienced major traffic disruptions due to the protest rally, with Circular Road remaining jammed for hours.
