High Court Slams 'No Work Day' Call by Punjab and Haryana Bar Association
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Punjab Court Deems Lawyers' Work Refusal Regrettable: Security Forces Engage in Conflict, Lawyers Should Remain Idle: High Court's Decree to Legal Professionals
In a surprising turn of events, the Punjab and Haryana High Court Bar Association (PHHCBA) has faced criticism for their decision to declare a 'no work day' in response to the escalating tensions between India and Pakistan.
On a day of heightened vigilance, the High Court showed disapproval of the PHHCBA's move, with the Chief Justice, Sheel Nagu, calling it "unfortunate." He questioned the rationale behind resting while the forces were battling it out, underscoring the discrepancy between the ongoing war and the legal profession's decision to take a day off[1][2].
In a war-like situation, the PHHCBA, along with the Bar Council of Punjab and Haryana (BCPH), suspended work, citing prevailing tensions. However, the High Court argued that institutions should continue functioning, stressing that the continued suspension would lead to a "grinding halt" of the entire country's system[4]. The court further noted that with access to online platforms for hearings, lawyers could have continued working remotely[4].
The court's stern comments come after the PHHCBA's decision to stand down resulted in the postponement of most cases, potentially delaying justice[4]. This move also drew concern from the public, who believe that professionals, such as lawyers, should continue their duties to support the smooth functioning of society during times of crisis[4].
So, what's next? Well, the High Court has fixed the hearing for the case regarding the ongoing water sharing dispute between Punjab and Haryana for 4 pm on Friday[4]. Only time will tell if the bar associations reconsider their stance on resting during times of national tension.
Cities: ChandigarhQuick Reminder: The provisional decision by the Punjab and Haryana High Court Bar Association prompted strong disapproval, leading to adjourned cases and public scrutiny. However, the High Court set a hearing for 4 pm on Friday. #StayUpdated
[1] NDTV - https://www.ndtv.com/india-news[2] The Times of India - https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/[3] Live Law - https://www.livelaw.in/[4] Bar & Bench - https://www.barandbench.com/
- Despite the Punjab and Haryana Bar Association's decision to suspend work due to the India-Pakistan tension, the High Court argued that institutions should persist in functioning to prevent a national crisis.
- The High Court's criticism of the Punjab and Haryana High Court Bar Association's 'no work day' was based on the ongoing war versus the legal profession's decision to take a day off, highlighting the apparent contrast.
- The PHHCBA's decision to rest on a day of heightened vigilance led to the postponement of most cases, delaying justice and drawing public concern, but the court has set a hearing for 4 pm on Friday.
- The ongoing water sharing dispute between Punjab and Haryana will have its hearing at the High Court on Friday, raising questions about the PHHCBA's stance on working during national tensions.
