Taking cognizance of a communication from the Goa High Court Bar Association concerning an attempt to murder Advocate Ankur Kumar and the rising number of physical assaults and threats against advocates arising from their court work, the High Court has registered the matter as a suo motu public interest litigation.

During the hearing on Wednesday, the High Court considered service of notice on the respondents and noted that the Public Prosecutor will represent the State and police respondents, including the Director General of Police and the SDPO.

The High Court stressed that, beyond isolated incidents that the police have contained, there is a wider systemic problem affecting the safety of legal practitioners and the administration of justice. The High Court also referred to recent legislative measures in other states, specifically Telangana’s Advocates Protection Act, as examples of steps taken to protect legal professionals.

The matter is adjourned to August 24 to allow the Public Prosecutor and Government Advocates time to obtain instructions from State authorities on possible measures and broader protective frameworks for lawyers.