A long-simmering conflict over the allocation of chambers at the Meerut district court erupted into a dramatic confrontation on Thursday. The situation escalated when a group of approximately ten junior lawyers took matters into their own hands, allegedly occupying a vacant, garbage-filled plot within the court premises, constructing a makeshift chamber, and locking themselves inside.
Desperate Protest and Threats of Self-Harm
The protest took a severe turn when the advocates reportedly hung three ropes from the grill of their temporary structure. They issued a stark warning, indicating they would resort to self-harm if authorities attempted to forcibly evict them. The action was a desperate symbol of the immense pressure they claim to be under due to the lack of proper workspace.
The immediate trigger for the standoff was objection from some senior advocates to this alleged encroachment. This led to a tense face-off between the two groups. Representatives from the bar association soon arrived at the scene and instructed the protesting lawyers to vacate the plot. Additional District Judge (ADJ) Alok Dwivedi also reached the location with police personnel, warning the group that their refusal to leave could lead to legal consequences, including arrest. Despite these warnings, the junior lawyers remained steadfast in their protest.
Voices from the Protest: Years of Neglect and Financial Strain
The protesting lawyers articulated a narrative of systemic neglect. They stated that despite practising in the court for several years, they have no designated space to sit or work. Sania Khan, a 26-year-old advocate among the protesters, explained that while chambers were allotted to junior advocates in 2023, physical possession was never handed over. "We have been forced to depend on seniors or work in corridors," she said.
Clarifying the symbolism of the ropes, Khan stated they represented the extreme pressure junior lawyers face. She delivered an ultimatum: "Either we will vacate after being given chambers, or this place will be vacated with our dead bodies." Another advocate, Mohd Amir, echoed these sentiments, alleging harassment by senior lawyers and highlighting mounting financial stress exacerbated by the lack of a permanent workspace. "Rising debts, career uncertainty and the absence of permanent chambers have pushed junior lawyers to the brink. If we are removed from here without any assurance, what option is left other than self-harm?" he questioned.
Official Response and Ongoing Impasse
In response to the crisis, Sanjay Sharma, president of the bar association, stated that the matter fell outside the association's jurisdiction as the land in question belongs to the court administration. He mentioned that the authorities were actively trying to resolve the issue. A court official confirmed that efforts were underway to find a solution to the deadlock.
As of late Thursday evening, the standoff showed no signs of resolution. The group of junior lawyers maintained their position, declaring they would not vacate the site until a concrete and favourable decision regarding the allotment of chambers was officially announced. The situation remains tense, highlighting a deep-seated issue within the infrastructure and support system for young legal professionals at the Meerut district court.
