Lawyers body calls for legal action against Prashant Bhushan attackers

Condemning the attack on activist lawyer Prashant Bhushan last evening, the Bar Association of India (BAI) Thursday called for stern legal action against the assailants and the organisations they represent.

"The BAI urges the authorities to take stern action against the miscreants and the organisation they represent within the parameters and due process of law," BAI president and senior advocate Anil B Divan said in a statement.

Terming the attack as one on legal profession, the BAI also called for effective security in and around court complexes to protect judges and lawyers.

"The Bar Association of India is appalled at and strongly condemns the attack on advocate Prashant Bhushan in his chambers opposite the Supreme Court - our temple of justice.

"To prevent such future acts, the BAI calls upon authorities in consultation with the Bar to put in place a credible and effective security mechanism particularly in court complexes and adjacent areas to protect lawyers and judges... Every Indian citizen and every human being is entitled to express his views without being intimidated in any manner."