Lawyers Clash Over Lohagad Fort Murder Case Representation

A courtroom battle has emerged in the Lohagad Fort murder case, focusing on the legal representation of accused Siya Goyal. Advocate Srivastava claims he is authorized to represent Goyal, stating his appointment documents are on court record. He has served a Rs 10 crore defamation notice to Siya's brother, Sahil Goyal, who had disputed Srivastava's claims.

Srivastava asserted that the defamation notice was a legal recourse for reputational harm due to alleged false allegations. He indicated that if Sahil Goyal does not issue a public apology and provide written communication, both civil and criminal defamation proceedings will commence. The notice cited the minimum estimated damage to Srivastava's reputation.

The legal dispute surfaced shortly after Siya Goyal and co-accused Chetan Chaudhary were remanded to police custody until July 3, concerning the alleged murder of Ketan Agarwal. Sahil Goyal had previously stated that Srivastava was never hired by their family.

Another lawyer, Vipul Dushing, has also claimed appointment by the family to defend Siya Goyal. However, Srivastava maintains that Siya, an adult, independently executed authorization documents for him and his associates on June 25, which were accepted by the court.

Siya Goyal and Chetan Chaudhary were arrested on June 23 for the alleged murder of Ketan Agarwal, who was reportedly pushed off a cliff at Lohagad Fort on June 18. Police allege Siya conspired with Chaudhary to kill her fiancé, Agarwal.