Amritsar Lawyer Shot En Route to Court: City Reels Amid Rising Concerns Over Safety of Legal Professionals

In a shocking incident that has sent ripples across the legal community and raised serious questions about safety in the city, a local lawyer was critically injured this morning after being shot by unidentified assailants while on his way to court.

The attack occurred in the heart of Amritsar, during the usual morning rush. The victim, a practicing advocate known for his active presence in local legal matters, was riding a two-wheeler near the city’s Lawrence Road when he was ambushed by two men on a motorcycle. Eyewitnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots before seeing the lawyer collapse to the ground. The assailants reportedly fled the scene within seconds, leaving behind chaos and fear.

Local shopkeepers and commuters immediately rushed to help, and emergency services were called in. The lawyer was quickly transported to a nearby hospital, where he remains in critical condition. Medical officials confirmed he sustained gunshot wounds to his chest and abdomen. A team of doctors is currently monitoring his situation closely.

Community in Shock, Legal Fraternity Outraged

The attack has sparked outrage among members of the legal fraternity in Amritsar, many of whom gathered at the hospital in support of their injured colleague. Several advocates expressed concern over what they called the “increasing vulnerability of legal professionals who fear retaliation simply for doing their job.”

“This is not just an attack on a lawyer,” said one senior advocate who asked not to be named. “This is an attack on justice itself. If lawyers are not safe on their way to court, how do we expect justice to thrive?”

Law and Order in Question

This brazen daylight attack has once again brought the spotlight onto Punjab’s law and order situation. Citizens have voiced growing anxiety about the boldness of such crimes, many of which appear to be planned and targeted.

The police have launched an investigation, combing through CCTV footage from the area and questioning potential witnesses. Initial reports suggest that the attack may not have been random, leading investigators to consider professional rivalry or a personal vendetta as possible motives. However, no arrests have been made so far.

“We are treating this as a high-priority case,” said a senior police official at a press briefing. “The assailants will be caught and brought to justice. We are exploring every lead, and forensic teams are already working on the case.”

A Growing Pattern?

This is not the first time a lawyer has been targeted in Punjab in recent months. Several incidents, both minor and major, have raised red flags around the safety of those working within the judicial system. With rising tensions around land disputes, criminal cases, and property conflicts, legal professionals often find themselves in precarious positions.

Security experts say that such incidents are not just isolated acts of violence but part of a larger issue of intimidation and coercion within the justice system.

“Lawyers in India are increasingly becoming soft targets,” said a retired police official. “They represent the bridge between citizens and the law. Targeting them creates fear and can derail sensitive cases.”

Calls for Better Protection

Following the incident, the Bar Association of Amritsar held an emergency meeting and passed a resolution demanding swift justice and increased protection for lawyers. They’ve called for immediate installation of panic buttons in legal offices, increased police patrolling near court routes, and stricter enforcement of firearm regulations.

“We can’t keep waiting for more tragedies before action is taken,” said one advocate. “We demand that the administration provide security to lawyers who handle high-stakes or sensitive cases.”

A City on Edge

As the sun sets on a tense day in Amritsar, residents remain shaken. The sound of gunfire in broad daylight has left an imprint on the collective psyche of the city, already grappling with growing crime-related anxiety.

While the injured lawyer fights for his life in the ICU, his colleagues, family, and fellow citizens await justice — not just for him, but for the very principle of safety and security in public service. Many hope this will serve as a wake-up call to authorities to act swiftly, not only to catch the culprits but to reinforce public confidence in the safety of those who stand for justice.