Meenakshi Shukla
A major demolition drive near the Prayagraj District Court on the morning of 11th June 2025 has triggered widespread protests by the legal fraternity, bringing judicial proceedings to a standstill. The operation commenced around 4 A.M., led by a joint team comprising representatives from the district administration, police, and the Prayagraj Municipal Corporation (PMC). Authorities used JCB machines to raze 151 temporary advocate chambers, which they claimed were illegally built along roadside land near the Collectorate and the district court.
Officials also removed about half a dozen roadside kiosks during the 90-minute operation. PMC stated that it had earlier issued notices asking advocates to vacate the structures. The notices, pasted on the chambers, gave a deadline of evening of 10th June. Since the chambers were not cleared, officials proceeded with the demolition the following morning. PMC clarified that the action was part of a larger anti-encroachment campaign, similar to a recent clearance under the Allahabad High Court flyover.
The move outraged the legal community. Lawyers immediately boycotted work and launched protests. Members of the District Advocates Association condemned the demolition, calling it arbitrary and high-handed. Many pointed out that while the chambers may not have had formal approval, they had existed for years and served as essential workspaces. The lack of prior consultation and absence of alternative seating arrangements worsened their anger.
Protests quickly escalated. Some lawyers reportedly pelted stones, damaged PMC vehicles, and vandalised the zonal municipal office in Katra. They also blocked the road outside the district court. Police intervened and brought the situation under control.
Several legal experts have questioned the procedural fairness of the demolition. While the municipal body has the authority to remove encroachments, advocates argue that the demolition of active chambers without individual notice violates natural justice. They also raised concerns about potential infringement of constitutional rights under Articles 14 and 21, which guarantee equality and protection of livelihood.
Later that day, representatives from the bar met with municipal officials at the PMC office to discuss a solution. The hour-long meeting led to a proposal to construct a permanent building for the advocates. The proposed site lies opposite the Senior Superintendent of Police’s office in Prayagraj. Although the plan remains in early stages, it has provided some relief to the affected lawyers.
This incident highlights the growing friction between urban development drives and professional rights. Advocates in Prayagraj have demanded that future actions involve proper consultation and include rehabilitation measures. As talks continue, they now await concrete administrative steps to restore their workspaces and resume normal functioning.
The episode has also sparked wider debate on the state of infrastructure for lawyers across district courts in Uttar Pradesh. The legal community emphasises that these chambers are not merely physical shelters, but crucial tools for ensuring public access to justice.
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