Delhi Lawyers Protest New Notification; Raise Concerns Over Judicial Fairness

In a strong show of dissent, lawyers across all district courts in Delhi staged a protest against a recent notification issued by the Lieutenant Governor (LG).

The legal community argues that the new directive, which permits police officers to testify from police stations rather than appearing in person at court, could severely compromise the principles of a fair and transparent trial.

The controversial notification has triggered alarm among legal professionals, who believe it grants unrestricted authority to police officials.

Under the new policy, officers will no longer appear before judges to provide testimony.

Instead, they will deliver statements remotely from within police stations — a move lawyers fear could erode judicial scrutiny and transparency.

Concerns Over the Integrity of Testimony

Senior advocates have voiced concerns that this decision poses a direct threat to the sanctity and independence of witness testimony.

Lawyers view physical presence in court as a critical safeguard against coercion and manipulation.

They argue that when officers give evidence from within their own institutional environment, the process limits cross-examination and reduces the likelihood of impartial testimony.

“This change is not a procedural improvement — it is a structural shift that risks turning India from a welfare state into a police state,” remarked one lawyer during the protest.

The Bar has called the move unconstitutional and said it could undermine public confidence in the judiciary.

While the policy is currently being enforced in Delhi, there are signs that it may be extended across the country.

This has intensified the legal fraternity’s resolve to resist what they consider a dangerous precedent.

Several Bar Associations have expressed concern that if left unchallenged, this framework could fundamentally alter the landscape of India’s judicial system.

Media Urged to Highlight the Issue

The Delhi Bar Association has issued an appeal to national media houses, urging them to give due attention to the matter.

“This isn’t just about lawyers. It’s about justice for every citizen,” said a spokesperson.

They stressed that public awareness and scrutiny are essential to uphold the principles of the Constitution and prevent overreach by law enforcement.

The lawyers’ protest signals a deepening standoff between the legal fraternity and the executive authorities in Delhi.

While the government may argue the move is for administrative efficiency, the legal community insists that no efficiency should come at the cost of fairness.

The coming weeks are likely to see further mobilisation as lawyers prepare to escalate the issue through formal legal and constitutional channels.

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