A demolition drive near the Lucknow District Court sparked protests by lawyers after authorities moved to remove
May 17, 2026: A major confrontation broke out outside the Lucknow District Court after authorities launched a bulldozer drive to remove around 240 unauthorized structures, including lawyers’ chambers and shops. The demolition was carried out following directions from the High Court to clear encroachments near the court complex.
The action triggered strong protests from advocates, who opposed the demolition and alleged that proper notice and alternative arrangements had not been provided. As tensions escalated, a large police force was deployed at the site to control the crowd. Police later used mild force and conducted a lathi charge to disperse protesting lawyers gathered outside the court premises.
Several chambers were demolished during the operation, leading to anger and distress among lawyers who claimed they had lost their working spaces. Officials, however, maintained that the drive was conducted strictly in compliance with court orders. The situation remained tense throughout the day as demolition work continued under heavy security deployment.