The streets of Itanagar were filled with hundreds of lawyers in black robes on Thursday as the legal community staged a massive protest against the brutal assault of a colleague. Led by the Gauhati High Court Itanagar Permanent Bench Bar Association (GHCIPBBA), the legal fraternity marched from Mithun Gate to IG Park, demanding immediate justice and stronger legislative safeguards for advocates in Arunachal Pradesh.
The protest was ignited by a violent attack on advocate Gegum Lollen at his residence and office chamber. According to the FIR, three individuals—identified as Likha Akash, Gora Paku, and Taring Tayu—allegedly assaulted the lawyer and issued death threats. The motive is believed to be linked to Lollen’s professional duties in a court case involving the All Arunachal Pradesh Students’ Union (AAPSU) election disqualification. Addressing the media, advocate Duge Soki characterized the incident as a direct assault on the rule of law, stating that lawyers must be able to represent clients without fear of violence at their own doorsteps.
In a powerful display of solidarity, the Bar Association has resolved that none of its members will represent the accused individuals in this case. Furthermore, the GHCIPBBA submitted a memorandum to the state government outlining four “non-negotiable” demands. Central to these demands is the immediate addition of Section 109 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for “attempt to murder.” The association cited graphic CCTV footage showing the victim being choked until he lost consciousness, arguing that any failure to include this charge would be a dilution of the crime’s gravity.
Beyond the immediate case, the legal community is demanding systemic change. The association has called for the immediate enactment of an Advocates’ Protection Act to ensure the safety and independence of legal practitioners. They have urged the state government to reintroduce the Arunachal Pradesh Advocates’ Protection Bill in the next Cabinet meeting for swift passage in the Legislative Assembly.
The memorandum also expressed a lack of confidence in the local police, calling for the investigation to be transferred to a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to avoid potential external influence. Additionally, the Bar has requested that the state government direct public prosecutors to strongly oppose any bail pleas for the accused. The association warned that the safety of lawyers is a prerequisite for a functional justice delivery system, and failure to meet these demands could severely undermine the legal framework of the state.
