“No Advocate is Above the Law”: Odisha State Bar Council Chairman Condemns Attack on CJI Gavai
In a strong statement highlighting the sanctity of the judiciary and the rule of law, Odisha State Bar Council Chairman condemned the recent attack on Chief Justice of India (CJI) D.Y. Gavai, emphasizing that no advocate, regardless of status or position, is above the law. The remarks came amid widespread outrage across the legal fraternity and public circles following the incident.
Chairman S.K. Patnaik described the attack as an affront to the judiciary and a threat to the very foundation of India’s democratic system. “The attack on CJI Gavai is deeply troubling and unacceptable. It undermines the rule of law and the trust that society places in the legal system. No advocate or individual, irrespective of influence, is above the law,” he asserted.
The Incident
While details of the attack are still being investigated, reports indicate that the incident occurred outside the Supreme Court premises, where an advocate allegedly confronted CJI Gavai in a hostile manner. Security agencies acted swiftly to ensure the safety of the Chief Justice, and preliminary investigations are underway to identify and apprehend those responsible.
The Odisha State Bar Council has urged law enforcement authorities to take swift and stringent action against the accused. Patnaik emphasized that such behavior not only tarnishes the reputation of the legal profession but also threatens public confidence in the judicial system.
Legal Fraternity Responds
The legal community across India has rallied in condemnation of the attack. Prominent advocates, bar associations, and law students expressed shock and solidarity with CJI Gavai. Many highlighted that the judiciary must function without fear or intimidation and that attacks on judges or court officials cannot be tolerated under any circumstances.
Patnaik noted, “The integrity of the judiciary is paramount. Legal professionals are entrusted with the responsibility of upholding justice and must act in accordance with the highest ethical standards. Any deviation that threatens the judiciary is unacceptable and punishable.”
Several other bar councils and legal associations have echoed similar sentiments, stressing that the legal profession thrives on respect for the law, ethical conduct, and adherence to courtroom decorum. The Odisha State Bar Council has further called for awareness programs to reinforce the principles of professionalism and accountability among advocates.
Upholding Rule of Law
The Chairman’s statement also served as a reminder that the rule of law applies equally to all citizens, including legal practitioners. The principle that “no one is above the law” is fundamental to India’s democracy and forms the cornerstone of the judicial system. By condemning the attack, the Odisha State Bar Council reinforced the idea that attempts to intimidate or influence judges through force or threat will not be tolerated.
Patnaik urged all advocates to act responsibly, emphasizing that the bar and the bench must maintain mutual respect while safeguarding the dignity of the profession. He called on younger lawyers to view the incident as a learning moment, underscoring that accountability and ethical practice are inseparable from legal success.
Government and Police Action
Law enforcement authorities have assured that a thorough investigation is underway and that all necessary measures are being taken to ensure the security of CJI Gavai and other members of the judiciary. Officials stressed that legal mechanisms will be invoked to prosecute the perpetrators to the fullest extent of the law.
The state government has also expressed support for the judiciary and reinforced the need to protect judicial officers from any form of intimidation or violence. The collaborative response from bar councils, police, and government authorities highlights a unified commitment to safeguarding judicial independence and public trust.
Conclusion
The attack on CJI Gavai has sent shockwaves across the nation, but the swift condemnation by the Odisha State Bar Council Chairman reinforces a critical message: no advocate, no matter how prominent, is above the law. Upholding the dignity of the judiciary and the rule of law is a responsibility shared by all members of the legal profession.
As investigations continue and the legal fraternity reflects on this incident, the emphasis remains on ensuring accountability, promoting ethical conduct, and protecting the integrity of India’s judicial system. For the judiciary to function effectively, it must operate free from fear and intimidation, and the Odisha State Bar Council’s resolute stance serves as a powerful affirmation of that principle.
Also read: https://channel6network.com/2-leaders-forge-strong-ties-pm-modi/
