Amid a surge in violent incidents at family courts across Maharashtra, the Bombay High Court’s Aurangabad bench has issued a directive for immediate security reinforcements. The order calls for enhanced safety measures, including armed protection for judges and a dedicated team of security personnel at all family court premises in the state.
The court’s directive mandates the deployment of a gunman-cum-bodyguard for principal judges, along with two male and three female constables at each family court location. This move comes in response to a growing number of altercations, often escalating into physical violence, between litigants embroiled in emotionally charged disputes.
Noting that family courts have become hotspots for clashes—sometimes involving weapons—the bench emphasized the urgent need for intervention. The issue gained attention after the court took suo moto cognizance last year, following multiple instances of attacks on judicial officers and legal representatives.
Despite previous instructions to conduct a statewide security audit, the court expressed frustration over delays in the submission of reports. The Home Department and Law and Judiciary Department have now been tasked with compiling comprehensive data from courts across Maharashtra, including those in Mumbai, Aurangabad, and Nagpur, with a deadline set for March 28. A final policy outlining long-term security measures is expected by April 22.
In the interim, the court has ordered the immediate deployment of security personnel at all family court premises, stressing that non-compliance will be addressed with law enforcement authorities. The matter is scheduled for further review on April 29.