Gorakhpur: Chief minister Yogi Adityanath on Tuesday announced that the Uttar Pradesh govt would create a mechanism to provide cashless healthcare facilities for advocates, while urging the legal fraternity to remain vigilant against conspiracies aimed at dividing society and weakening national institutions.Addressing the introduction ceremony of the newly elected executive committee of the Bar Association, Civil Court, Gorakhpur, Yogi described advocates as guardians of constitutional values and an important link between citizens and the judiciary. He said lawyers not only fight legal battles but also serve as legal advisers to society and custodians of public trust.The chief minister said quality, timely and accessible justice is the foundation of the rule of law and credited advocates with helping implement the country’s new criminal laws. He also warned against attempts to create divisions through fake social media accounts and misinformation campaigns targeting caste, religion, language and regional identities.Highlighting India’s progress under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, Yogi said the country had emerged as one of the world’s leading economies and was advancing rapidly through welfare and infrastructure initiatives. He claimed that 25 crore people had been lifted out of poverty over the past 12 years through government schemes.Listing measures taken for lawyers’ welfare, the chief minister said the Advocate Welfare Fund had been increased from Rs 1.5 lakh to Rs 5 lakh, backed by a Rs 500-crore corpus fund. Around 4,000 advocates have received assistance worth Rs 200 crore so far. He also cited steps such as enhanced financial aid, construction of court infrastructure and chambers, and improved forensic facilities across Uttar Pradesh.Recalling the legacy of the Gorakhpur Civil Court, established in 1895, Yogi said the bar association had played a significant role in the freedom movement and continues to contribute to public life. He urged advocates to uphold that tradition and prepare for emerging challenges.
