Odisha: SC asks lawyers to end strike, resume work soon

Bhubaneswar:  The Supreme Court today asked the agitating lawyers to end the strike and join their duty soon in order to help people getting access to justice.

The apex court also said that the Orissa High Court Bar Association and other connected associations to resume the court work.

While hearing a PIL in this regard, the Supreme Court directed the Odisha Director General of Police (DGP) R P Sharma to transfer the investigation to Crime Branch Inspector General of Police (IGP).

“The entire investigation shall be within the charge of the Inspector General of Police and we are sure, he shall conduct the investigation with all sincerity, concern and objectivity,” the court order said.

Earlier in the week, Cuttack DCP Akhileswar Singh had suspended Constables BK Samal and UK Bhuyan along with Havildar PK Behera in connection with the incident.

Despite suspension of two policemen, the agitating lawyers refused to call off their stir. On Wednesday, all government offices located near the High Court premises were closed as the agitating lawyers picketed in front of them, restraining the employees from entering their offices.

Notably, lawyers across the State are protesting since August 29 demanding the arrest of the policemen who allegedly assaulted the advocate in Cuttack on August 28.