A Delhi court recently framed criminal charges against Congress leader Alka Lamba in connection with a protest at Janta Mantar demanding implementation of women's reservation in parliament before the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate (ACJM) Ashwani Panwar of the Rouse Avenue Court charged Lamba with the offence related to assault or use of criminal force against public servants, obstruction of public officials, disobedience of a lawful order, and obstructing a public way.
“This court is of the considered opinion that there exists a prima facie case against the accused namely, Alka Lamba for the commission of offences punishable under Sections 132/221/223(a)/285 BNS. Accordingly, the charge is directed to be framed against the accused under the above-mentioned provisions,” the Court said.
It also rejected Lamba’s plea seeking discharge in the case.
“Application moved on behalf of the accused seeking discharge/termination of the proceedings stands dismissed and disposed in view of the reasons aforementioned,” the Court ordered.
The case relates to a protest held on July 29, 2024, in support of women’s reservation in parliament, during which Lamba was alleged to be the main speaker.
According to the prosecution, prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) were in force in the area around Jantar Mantar Road, and permission to march towards parliament had been expressly denied.
Police alleged that despite repeated warnings, Lamba and other protesters attempted to breach barricades, raised slogans calling for a “gherao” of parliament, pushed police personnel and blocked a public road by sitting on it. An FIR was registered at Parliament Street police station following the incident.
Lamba’s lawyer argued that the protest was peaceful and took place within a designated area where assemblies are permitted. It was also contended that there were no independent witnesses, no medical reports of injuries, and that video evidence did not show Lamba assaulting any police officer.
However, the court noted that video footage played during the hearing showed Lamba actively instigating protesters, pushing police officials, jumping barricades and leading demonstrators beyond the permissible protest area.
The magistrate observed that the accused appeared to be at the forefront of the protest and played a key role in encouraging others to breach police barricades and obstruct a public way.
Hence, it proceeded to frame charges against Lamba.
Advocate Imran Ali appeared for Alka Lamba.
[Read Order]