The Supreme Court of India has called for comprehensive data on abstention from work by all district Bar Associations in Uttar Pradesh. This follows an undertaking from the Faizabad Bar Association pledging not to support any resolutions for work abstention.
The Court is considering expanding the proceedings beyond Faizabad due to widespread issues regarding lawyers’ strikes.
Context of the Proceedings
The case arises from a plea by the Faizabad Bar Association against an Allahabad High Court ruling that appointed an Elders Committee to oversee its affairs and ensure elections for its Governing Council are conducted by December 2024. The Supreme Court has issued a notice regarding this plea and has directed the involvement of the Allahabad High Court and the Elders Committee.
Judicial Concerns Over Lawyer Participation
During the hearing, the bench, comprising Justices Surya Kant and Ujjal Bhuyan, expressed alarm over the frequency of lawyers’ strikes, citing instances where courts operated with less than 50% attendance over the past two years. Justice Kant remarked, “This is a very serious issue. The judicial system has been paralyzed,” highlighting the detrimental impact of such actions on the legal process.
Future Directions and Responsibilities
The bench welcomed the Faizabad Bar Association’s commitment to cease abstention, indicating that a sense of responsibility among lawyers could enhance their status and benefit the judicial system. Senior Advocate Rakesh Khanna suggested that other Bar Associations be included in future proceedings to establish uniform practices.
Next Steps
The Court has refrained from issuing immediate interim directions but plans to hear arguments on the matter in subsequent sessions. The developments in the Faizabad case are seen as a potential catalyst for other Bar Associations to align with the judicial expectations of professional conduct.
Case Title: FAIZABAD BAR ASSOCIATION Versus BAR COUNCIL OF UTTAR PRADESH AND ORS., SLP(C) No. 19804-19805/2024
(With inputs from agency)
Share your news, articles, deals, columns, or press releases with us! Click the link to submit and join our platform today.
