In a strong disciplinary action, the Bar Council of Kerala has barred a senior lawyer from appearing before any court in the state following allegations of a brutal assault on a junior woman lawyer. The accused, identified as Advocate Das, now faces criminal charges under several provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including Section 74, which deals with assault or criminal force against a woman.
The incident has triggered widespread outrage across Kerala’s legal community, raising serious concerns about the safety and dignity of women in the profession. The victim, identified as junior advocate Shyamily, has accused Das of physically attacking her in a shocking act of workplace violence.
Following the incident, the Bar Council acted swiftly to suspend Advocate Das from court appearances pending the outcome of ongoing disciplinary proceedings. In a statement, the Council emphasised that such behaviour is “completely unbecoming of a member of the legal fraternity” and will not be tolerated under any circumstances.
However, the incident has also revealed troubling dynamics within the legal community. According to Shyamily, there was resistance from some office bearers of the local lawyers’ association when she demanded immediate police action against Das. She alleged that these individuals opposed the idea of arresting a lawyer from his office, potentially enabling impunity in a professional space that should uphold justice.
The police have registered a case against Das and launched an investigation into the matter. Officials confirmed that charges include Section 74 of the BNS, among others, which covers using criminal force or assault on a woman with the intent to outrage her dignity. Authorities have yet to confirm if Das has been taken into custody or if further legal action is underway.
Legal associations across Kerala have expressed solidarity with the victim, urging strict action not only against the perpetrator but also calling for systemic reforms to ensure the safety of junior advocates, particularly women. “This is not just an individual case, but a reflection of a toxic work culture that must be addressed,” said one senior lawyer, requesting anonymity.
Women’s rights activists and legal professionals alike are calling for stronger safeguards and zero tolerance toward gender-based violence within professional settings. The Bar Council has promised to expedite its disciplinary inquiry and has assured the public of an impartial and rigorous investigation.
