The ongoing lawyers' strike in Delhi’s district courts will continue tomorrow as legal professionals protest against the proposed Advocates (Amendment) Bill, 2025. The strike, led by the Coordination Committee of All District Court Bar Associations, has disrupted court proceedings, with advocates demanding changes to the bill.

Why Are Lawyers Protesting?

Opposition to Section 35A of the Amendment Bill

• The proposed bill bans lawyers from going on strike, stating that advocates or their associations cannot call for boycotts or abstain from court work.
• Legal professionals argue that this provision violates their right to protest and undermines the autonomy of Bar Associations.

Concerns Over the Independence of the Legal Profession

• Lawyers believe the bill gives excessive power to the authorities, reducing the influence of independent Bar Councils.
• They fear it could limit their ability to fight for legal reforms and better working conditions.

Call for Consultation Before Implementation

• Bar associations claim that the government introduced the bill without adequate consultation with legal representatives.
• They demand a review and discussion before it is passed into law.

Impact of the Strike

✔ Judicial proceedings in district courts remain stalled, causing delays in case hearings.
✔ Clients and litigants are facing difficulties, as court activities have come to a halt.
✔ Pressure is mounting on the government, with legal professionals urging authorities to reconsider the proposed law.

What Happens Next?

• The lawyers’ strike is expected to continue until their demands are addressed.
• Discussions between the Bar Associations and government representatives may take place in the coming days.
• If the demands are not met, the protest could escalate further, leading to extended disruptions in court proceedings.