Article 21 provides that no one is to be deprived of their life without the due process of law and such resolutions deprive citizens of legal counsel and is also an impediment to the swift and efficient administration of justice. The casualty of such a practice is the accused in a criminal trial and the cause of justice itself.

The fact that the trial is now being prosecuted in a different state because of the policy of the respective bar associations is a sad reflection of the commitment of the bar associations to the cause of justice. The associations have, ironically, aided the very persons they have condemned unheard. Shifting cases outside courts will be a nightmare in logistics and other issues relating to procedure — examination of documents, witnesses, experts etc.

In times of public madness driven by caprice and misplaced passion, it would be good to remember the wise words of Jesus Christ, “Let he among you who has not sinned, cast the first stone.”

The writer is a Delhi-based lawyer