Threat to rule of law, says Opposition on Varanasi lawyer-police clashes

Amid brewing tension between lawyers and police in Varanasi, with social media filled with support for both groups, many political leaders on Saturday (September 20, 2025) demanded implementation of the Advocates Protection Act and called the emerging situation in Varanasi a grave threat to the dignity of the judiciary and the rule of law.

Uttar Pradesh Congress unit president Ajay Rai demanded the intervention of the Prime Minister, who is also the local MP, to resolve the conflict and stop the harassment of advocates. 

“The emerging conflict between lawyers and police is adversely impacting the democratic structure, it not only shows the incompetency of the local administration but also an unconcerned attitude of the government. Lawyers are not only a professional group but also a watcher of the constitution and democracy. The attack by the police on them is symbol of assault on rule-based system. I request the Prime Minister and the government to intervene and take strict action on those who attacked the lawyers. I also request to start dialogue between both groups,” said Mr. Rai, to The Hindu. 

The conflict started days back when a lawyer was allegedly assaulted by policemen. Later on September 16, dozens of lawyers mobbed and allegedly thrashed two police personnel, leaving them hospitalised. It led to tension with multiple videos of each group challenging the other that emerged on social media. The representatives of the advocate association filed a petition against senior police officials and personnel, alleging the use of abusive language against lawyers, with no action on the complaint. 

Aasutosh Sinha, Member of Legislative Council (MLC), demanded the implementation of the Advocate Protection Act to prevent such instances and alleged attacks on lawyers.

Shahnawaz Alam, National Secretary of Congress Party, alleged that the brewing tension highlights the failure of the rule of law architecture in the State.

“Such incident happens when there is complete collapse of rule of law and check balance mechanism in Uttar Pradesh. If lawyers are attacked, it is wrong for a democracy, even if a confrontation happens, it shows a failure of the constitutional system,” he added.