NEW DELHI
The Bar Council of India (BCI) has officially asked the Chief Justice of India to intervene following a shocking incident at the Andhra Pradesh High Court.
Justice Tarlada Rajasekhar Rao reportedly ordered a young lawyer into 24-hour police custody simply because the advocate did not have a specific copy of a court order during a hearing.
A viral video of the incident shows the young lawyer repeatedly apologizing and “begging for grace” with folded hands, explaining that he intended no disrespect. Despite his pleas, the judge allegedly rebuked him in front of his peers and directed police personnel to enter the courtroom to take him away.
BCI Chairman Manan Kumar Mishra described the judge’s behavior as “deeply disturbing” and “grossly inappropriate,” noting that it has sent a chilling wave of fear through the legal community.
The BCI’s letter emphasizes that while judges can correct lawyers, they should do so without “public humiliation.” The council has called for serious administrative action, including the withdrawal of judicial work from Justice Rao and his potential transfer to a different state. They also suggested that the judge undergo mandatory training on “judicial temperament” and how to maintain a respectful relationship between the bench and the bar.
Legal associations across the country have expressed solidarity with the young advocate, arguing that such disproportionate punishments undermine the dignity of the entire judicial system. The Chief Justice has been urged to review the courtroom footage and take swift action to ensure that young professionals can practice law without fear of immediate arrest for minor procedural errors.
