The recent murder of senior advocate Mohini Tomar has ignited intense reactions across Agra and surrounding districts, leading to widespread protests within the legal community. Tomar, a well-regarded figure at the Kasganj District Court, was found dead in a canal, prompting calls for justice and significant reforms.
Tomar, who had a notable reputation as an advocate, vanished mysteriously from the Kasganj District Court’s main gate. Her body was subsequently discovered in the Rekhpur Minor canal near Rajpura village. An initial investigation and post-mortem revealed that Tomar was murdered before being disposed of in the canal, with drowning ruled out as the cause of death.
The news of Tomar’s death has sent shockwaves through the legal community. In Agra, lawyers gathered in large numbers at the district court to express their outrage and demand justice. The protests were marked by calls for the immediate arrest of those responsible and the imposition of capital punishment.
Senior Advocate Naseem Qureshi highlighted the urgent need for the Advocate Protection Act, citing a worrying trend of attacks on lawyers in the state. He criticised the authorities for their perceived inaction against these increasing threats, underlining the broader context of insecurity faced by legal professionals.
In response to Tomar’s murder, the High Court Bench Establishment Struggle Committee convened at the Agra Bar Association auditorium to voice their dissatisfaction. The committee issued several demands, including a Rs 50 lakh compensation to Tomar’s family. An 11-member delegation of lawyers from Agra is also set to travel to Kasganj to meet with the bereaved family and offer their support.
In a show of solidarity, the Agra legal community held a candlelight vigil at the Martyr’s Memorial. During the vigil, they prayed for Tomar and issued an ultimatum to the authorities: arrest the culprits within 48 hours and ensure a fast-tracked trial with a verdict delivered within two months. Additionally, they called for a Rs 1 crore compensation for Tomar’s family.
The murder has not only mobilized local lawyers but also drawn attention from senior judicial officials. District Judge Syed Mauz Bin Qasim visited Tomar’s residence in Madhopuri Colony to pay his respects, reflecting the gravity of the situation within the judicial community.
The protests and demands reflect a broader concern over the safety and security of legal professionals in the region. The swift and decisive action demanded by the legal community underscores the need for systemic changes to protect those who serve in the legal profession.
As the Agra legal community continues to rally for justice, the murder of Mohini Tomar has become a poignant symbol of the broader issues facing the legal profession. The calls for immediate action and substantial compensation highlight the deep impact of this tragedy and the urgent need for a comprehensive response from both the authorities and the judiciary.
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