ADVOCATES PROTECTION LAW
A Collective Initiative in Pursuit of Justice for Swapna
A Collective Initiative in Pursuit of Justice for Swapna
The brutal murder of our sister advocate, Mrs. Swapna Kumari, practicing at the Chevella Court, Ranga Reddy District, on 04.02.2026 at Kethireddypally Village, Moinabad Mandal, has profoundly shaken the legal fraternity. This heinous act has caused deep anguish and instilled a grave sense of fear among advocates, particularly women advocates. In order to restore confidence and enable members of the Bar to pursue the legal profession with courage, commitment, and a sense of security, it is imperative to place on record the sequence of events that culminated in the tragic death of our sister, Mrs. Swapna Kumari. Further, it is essential to inform and update the public at large—especially the advocate community—about the steps taken by proactive members of the Bar to ensure justice for Mrs. Swapna Kumari, as well as the concerted efforts being undertaken for the early enactment of the Advocate Protection Act in our State.
By Advocates,
Chevella Advocates Bar Association,
Chevella, Rangareddy District.
Name:
Gotika Swapna KumariDate of Birth:
19 October 1988Place of Birth:
Kethireddypalli Village, Moinabad Mandal, Ranga Reddy DistrictParents:
Siblings:
Educational Background
Professional Details
Mrs. Swapna Kumari belonged to a family with complex circumstances. Her father had two wives, having remarried due to childlessness in his first marriage. She had two brothers and one sister. Her elder brother, G. Kiran Kumar, tragically passed away in an accident prior to 2006. Her sister was married approximately 25 years ago. Her father passed away around 2006–2007. Her surviving brother, G. Raju, is married and has children. After the demise of her father, Mrs. Swapna Kumari single-handedly assumed the responsibility of caring for and supporting both her mothers. Despite facing her own personal challenges, she diligently devoted herself throughout her life to the welfare of her two elderly widowed mothers, ensuring their safety, dignity, and basic needs were consistently met. She carried the mantle of responsibility for her family while pursuing her education and career. Despite enduring years of abuse, she persevered, balancing her responsibilities to her family while courageously pursuing her legal career. She got married to her childhood friend. However, her decision to live independently and marry did not sit well with her brother, Gotika Raju, who had a history of subjecting her to physical assaults, intimidation, and repeated attempts on her life.
Gotika Raju, the brother of Late Advocate Gotika Swapna Kumari, was a persistent and grave source of threat, fear, and tension in her life. Their father had acquired nearly 20 acres of land in their native village, but Gotika Raju illegally sold and disposed of large portions of this land to third parties to fund his vices. He was actively engaged in the real estate business. In addition, he filed a collusive civil suit against Mrs. Swapna Kumari (O.S. No. 392/2025 on the file of XVIII Additional District Judge, Chevella), falsely claiming that he had sold portions of land belonging to her, with the apparent intent of depriving her of her rightful share. The initial ad interim order obtained by Raju in this suit was recently dismissed, which reportedly fueled his vengeance and determination to eliminate Mrs Swapna Kumari by any means.
Raju repeatedly subjected her to physical assaults, intimidation, and repeated attempts on her life. Over a prolonged period, she endured brutal harassment and constant threats. On several occasions, the assaults were so severe that she was compelled to approach the police and seek legal protection. Accordingly, she lodged reports against him on multiple occasions since 2021. Despite the pendency of criminal proceedings and the clear threat to her life, Gotika Raju continued his violent conduct.
Criminal Cases Registered Against Gotika Raju
The following cases highlight his persistent criminal behavior:Given the undeterred conduct of Gotika Raju, Mrs Swapna Kumari approached both the police authorities and the proactive members of the Chevella Bar Association, as well as the President of the T.S. High Court Advocates Bar Association, to report the matter and seek protection. In response, the President of the T.S. High Court Advocates Bar Association personally contacted the concerned police officials and requested them to take appropriate action. Similarly, members of the Chevella Bar Association visited the police station in person, urging the authorities to act promptly against the culprits.
The representations submitted by Mrs Swapna Kumari include:Police Negligence and Inaction
There was absolute callousness and negligence on the part of the police in taking prompt action against Gotika Raju, despite grave and specific allegations, multiple registered crimes, and repeated representations and reminders. This inaction was evident in several ways:This pattern of negligence and systemic failure exacerbated the threats to Mrs Swapna Kumari’s life, leaving her exposed despite repeated pleas for protection, and highlights the urgent need for mechanisms like the Advocate Protection Act to ensure the safety of citizens and legal professionals alike.
This section discusses the laws that have been passed and those proposed for the safety and security of advocates.
