Retired Judge Appointed to Investigate the Death of Advocate Jagrati Shukla Amidst Medical and Legal Fraternity Disputes
In a significant development, the Allahabad High Court has mandated a judicial inquiry into the alleged medical negligence that purportedly led to the death of advocate Jagrati Shukla. This decision comes in response to Public Interest Litigations (PILs) filed concerning the tragic incident and the subsequent disruptions caused by protests and strikes involving both medical and legal professionals.
On May 20, 2026, Jagrati Shukla, a practicing advocate at the Allahabad High Court, sustained severe injuries in an accident. She was transported to Swaroop Rani Nehru Hospital for immediate medical care. However, allegations have surfaced suggesting that the medical staff, including the Emergency Medical Officer, were negligent, leading to a confrontation between the advocates and the hospital staff. Tragically, Shukla succumbed to her injuries on June 7, 2026, at SGPGI, Lucknow.
The incident led to widespread protests by the Bar Association, causing significant public inconvenience. In retaliation, doctors at Swaroop Rani Nehru Hospital initiated a strike, further exacerbating the situation. The High Court has expressed its disapproval of both actions, labeling such disruptions as criminal acts affecting public rights.
In response to these events, the High Court has appointed Hon'ble Mr. Justice Arun Tandon, a retired High Court Judge, to conduct a thorough inquiry. The inquiry will focus on several critical issues, including whether Shukla received timely and adequate medical treatment, the standard of care provided, and the circumstances leading to the physical clash at the hospital.
Furthermore, the court has directed the district administration to ensure the resumption of medical services and the free movement of citizens. It has also emphasized the importance of maintaining public order and warned that any obstruction or inconvenience caused to the public will be treated as contempt of court.
The inquiry report is expected to be submitted by September 30, 2026. The court has also involved the National Medical Council of India to address the recurring strikes in government hospitals, ensuring that such incidents are prevented in the future.
This case underscores the delicate balance between professional responsibilities and public rights, highlighting the need for accountability and swift justice in matters impacting public welfare.
Bottom line:-
Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed concerning medical negligence, alleged assault by medical professionals, and disruption caused by protests and strikes involving legal and medical professionals. Court directs a judicial inquiry by a retired High Court Judge and issues measures to maintain public order and ensure uninterrupted medical services.
Statutory provision(s): Sections 115(2), 309(4), 109(1), 118(2), 127(2), 76, 351(3), 352 of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023.
Amit Kumar Singh @ Sonu Singh v. State of U.P., (Allahabad)(DB) : Law Finder Doc id # 2923711
