Karnataka Bar Council Suspends Advocate for Sexual Harassment, Refers Case to Disciplinary Committee

Karnataka Bar Council Suspends Advocate for Sexual Harassment, Refers Case to Disciplinary Committee

VoM News Desk | November 24, 2023 | 11:54 PM IST | Karnataka | Follow on Google News

Karnataka Bar Council Suspends Advocate for Sexual Harassment, Refers Case to Disciplinary Committee

Karnataka Bar Council Suspends Advocate for Sexual Harassment, Refers Case to Disciplinary Committee

The Karnataka State Bar Council has taken decisive action by suspending a 46-year-old Bengaluru advocate following allegations of sexual harassment against a junior female advocate in his office. The case has now been referred to a Disciplinary Committee for further inquiry.

Allegations and Background of the Case

The complaint was lodged by a 26-year-old female junior advocate who had been working in the accused advocate’s office since April 2022. The allegations include a series of forceful behavior by the senior advocate, leading to her resignation from the office in September 2022. Post-resignation, she faced alleged blackmail from the senior advocate, along with criminal cases filed against her.

Evidence and Bar Council’s Observations

In its proceedings, the Bar Council scrutinized the documents and WhatsApp messages exchanged between the parties. These messages revealed an unprofessional approach by the respondent advocate, indicating clear cases of sexual harassment, criminal intimidation, and professional misbehavior.

Lack of Response from the Accused Advocate

Despite being given time until October 5, 2023, to file an explanation to the complaint, the accused advocate failed to submit any explanation or objections within the 30-day period, leading to his suspension pending enquiry.

Disciplinary Action and Enquiry Process

The Bar Council has resolved to suspend the respondent advocate’s enrollment until the enquiry is completed. The case has been forwarded to Disciplinary Committee No.1 for a thorough investigation into the matter.

VoM News Desk

VoM News is an online web portal in jammu Kashmir offers regional, National & global news.