Crime News / Odisha Bar Council Condemns Jharigaon Court Attack, Demands Safety Law

Nabarangapur, Nov 8: The Odisha State Bar Council has strongly condemned the alleged murderous attack on a judge and legal professionals inside the Jharigaon Court premises, describing the incident as a serious threat to the judicial system and the safety of legal practitioners.

The incident, which occurred on November 7, left Judicial Officer Smita Lakra, Government Advocate Pradeep Pattnaik, and Court Sub-Inspector Minaketan Gantayat injured. The shocking attack has triggered widespread concern within legal circles across the state.

Taking note of the gravity of the incident, Odisha High Court Judge Justice V. Narasingh visited Nabarangpur to review the situation. During his visit, he held discussions with members of the legal fraternity and district officials at a meeting organised at the Circuit House conference hall.

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Addressing the gathering, Odisha State Bar Council member Pita Ramesh Patra strongly condemned the attack and highlighted several concerns relating to the safety and security of advocates. Members of the legal community urged authorities to take immediate measures to prevent such incidents from recurring.

Justice Narasingh later visited the District Headquarters Hospital, where seriously injured Government Advocate Pradeep Pattnaik is undergoing treatment.

The judge enquired about his health condition and directed district authorities to ensure that the injured lawyer receives all necessary medical care without any negligence.

The High Court judge also instructed Additional District Magistrate Pramod Kumar Prusty to coordinate with the administration and ensure adequate treatment facilities for the injured advocate.

Meanwhile, the Odisha State Bar Council has intensified its demand for the immediate implementation of an Advocate Protection Act in the state. The council argued that lawyers, judicial officers and court staff require stronger legal safeguards to discharge their duties without fear.

Legal bodies have called for enhanced protection measures and strict action against those responsible for the attack.

Prominent members of the prosecution department, including Assistant Director of Public Prosecution Rupesh Pradhani and Public Prosecutor Manoj Kumar Ekka, along with several advocates, attended the meeting.