**Supreme Court Orders DCP-Led SIT Probe into Alleged Assault on Lawyers Protesting Against BCI Chairman** The Supreme Court of India on October 12, 2026, directed the Delhi Police Commissioner to ensure a proper investigation into allegations that lawyers were assaulted during a protest against Bar Council of India (BCI) Chairman Manan Kumar Mishra. The Court ordered the constitution of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) headed by a senior police officer of Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) rank. **Background of the Dispute** The matter concerns an alleged assault on advocates during a protest held at and around the BCI premises in New Delhi on the intervening night of August 20 and 21, 2026. The protesters had raised concerns about the functioning of the BCI and demanded the resignation of its chairman. They also raised demands concerning advocates' protection, insurance coverage and transparency in the inspection of law colleges. According to the petitioners, a group of individuals allegedly assaulted the protesting lawyers. A written complaint was reportedly submitted to the Station House Officer of the IP Estate Police Station on August 22, 2026. The petitioners alleged that no First Information Report (FIR) had been registered following their complaint. **Proceedings Before the Courts** The lawyers initially approached the Delhi High Court seeking an investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) or another independent agency. On September 21, 2026, the High Court dismissed their petition, referring to the availability of an alternative statutory remedy before the jurisdictional magistrate. The petitioners subsequently approached the Supreme Court challenging the High Court's decision. Advocate Prashant Bhushan, appearing for the petitioners, submitted that the complaint had not resulted in an FIR and sought an effective investigation into the alleged incident. **Supreme Court's Directions** A Bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V. Mohana directed the Delhi Police Commissioner to ensure that the complaint was investigated by an SIT headed by an officer of DCP rank. The investigation must not be influenced by the Delhi High Court's earlier observations. The Court further directed that the investigation be taken to its logical conclusion and that a report be submitted to the jurisdictional magistrate. It also indicated that the petitioners could pursue the statutory remedy available before the magistrate. The Supreme Court did not order a CBI investigation. Instead, it required a senior police officer-led investigation within the Delhi Police framework. **Legal Significance** The order highlights the importance of an effective investigation into allegations of physical assault and the availability of judicial remedies when complainants question the handling of a police complaint. It also underscores the role of constitutional courts in ensuring that investigations proceed fairly and without being prejudiced by earlier judicial observations. The allegations remain subject to investigation. The Supreme Court's directions do not amount to a finding of guilt against any individual, and responsibility for the alleged assault remains to be established through the legal process.