Lawyers across Telangana protest attack on woman judge

Karan Singh, who had previously been sentenced to life imprisonment by Judge Harisha for attacking two constables with a knife, also used abusive language and issued death threats against the judge and her family.

Bar associations led the protests, calling for strict action against Karan Singh, enhanced security for advocates, and the immediate implementation of the Advocates Protection Act. The demonstrations were particularly intense at the Rangareddy district court, where the Bar Association Federation staged a boycott. Advocates marched outside the court, blocked the main road, and raised slogans demanding justice.

Rangareddy Bar Association president Kondal Reddy denounced the attack. “Karan Singh has a criminal history. He targeted the judge in retaliation for her verdict and had previously assaulted police officers. His threats and abusive language against the judge cannot be tolerated. This boycott is our way of sending a strong message that such acts will not go unchallenged,” he said.

Special Public Prosecutor Sunitha emphasised the impartiality of the judiciary. “Judges do not hold personal grudges; they deliver verdicts based on arguments and evidence. Unfortunately, the accused acted out of anger, misunderstanding the role of the judiciary. It is alarming that such a grave insult occurred in a major court like Ranga Reddy, especially against a woman judge,” she said.

Nampally Bar Association president Rajavardhan Reddy criticised the security failure. “Despite being in police custody, the accused managed to launch this attack, which is unacceptable. He has insulted not just the judge but the entire judicial system. We demand stronger protection for lawyers and judicial officers,” he said.

Secunderabad Bar Association president Vasanth Kumar echoed these concerns. “If an accused in custody can act this way, it signals a serious lapse in security. We are protesting to ensure that stringent action is taken against him and that the government and police improve security measures,” he lamented.

The Telangana Cadre Prosecutors Welfare and Development Association also condemned the attack. Prosecutors across the state wore black badges in protest and urged the government to take immediate steps to prevent such incidents. Association members met Hyderabad Metropolitan Sessions Judge B. Suresh to express their support for the judiciary.