Judicial work in the district courts of Ludhiana came to a near standstill on Tuesday as members of the District Bar Association observed a 'No Work Day' in protest against the Legal Aid Defence Counsel (LADC) policy. The strike, which began at the call of the Joint Action Committee (JAC) of Bar Associations across Punjab, saw advocates abstaining from court appearances, leading to the adjournment of a large number of cases without effective hearings.
Unanimous Decision by Executive Committee
District Bar Association president Vipin Saggar and secretary Himanshu Walia confirmed that the decision to abstain from work was taken unanimously by the executive committee. As a result, no advocate appeared before any court on Tuesday, causing widespread disruption in judicial proceedings. Most matters were postponed to future dates, leaving litigants and court staff affected.
Court Complex Gate Closed in Solidarity
As part of the protest, the gate connecting the court complex with the lawyers’ chamber complex remained closed throughout the day, symbolizing the unity of the legal fraternity in support of the agitation. Court proceedings were largely paralysed as advocates stayed away from judicial work, reflecting the strength of the bar's collective action.
Agitation Aims to Safeguard Legal Profession
Addressing members of the Bar, Saggar said the agitation was aimed at safeguarding the interests of advocates, preserving the independence of the legal profession, and ensuring transparency in the justice delivery system. He emphasized that the LADC policy, which the JAC opposes, threatens these principles and requires immediate reconsideration.
Impact on Court Operations
The strike resulted in the adjournment of hundreds of cases scheduled for Tuesday, with judges unable to proceed due to the absence of lawyers. Court staff reported a significant drop in activity, and litigants were seen waiting outside courtrooms, uncertain about the status of their cases. The indefinite nature of the strike raises concerns about further delays in the disposal of pending cases.
Background of the LADC Policy Protest
The Joint Action Committee of Bar Associations in Punjab has been vocal against the LADC policy, arguing that it undermines the role of private practitioners and restricts the choice of legal representation for underprivileged litigants. The JAC has called for a series of protests across the state, with Ludhiana being one of the key districts to join the stir. Tuesday's 'No Work Day' is part of an escalating campaign that may include further strikes if the policy is not withdrawn.
