In an escalation of tensions between the judiciary and the legal community, the Co-ordination Committee of the three Bar Associations of the Patna High Court has called for a total abstention from professional duties on May 11, 2026.
The decision comes in response to what the committee describes as a deteriorating courtroom atmosphere, characterized by “uncharitable” and “abusive” behavior from certain members of the bench.
In a strongly worded resolution following an extraordinary meeting, the committee alleged a “growing rift” between the Bar and the Bench. The document claims that the conduct of some judges toward practicing advocates has become increasingly “uncouth,” “insulting,” and “hitting below the belt.”
The resolution further critiques the judicial temperament in several courtrooms, suggesting that some judges behave as if they are a “repository of all knowledge as to law and otherwise.” These conditions, the committee states, have created a climate of fear and hesitation among the legal fraternity.
The atmosphere has reportedly reached a point where even the most seasoned legal professionals are wary of appearing in court. “What to talk of young members, even Senior Members are often afraid to appear before certain judges,” the resolution noted, emphasizing the gravity of the psychological impact on the legal community.
The immediate catalyst for this protest is a notice (Notice No. 3) issued under the signature of the Registrar General-in-charge on May 7, 2026. As seen in the official resolution, the Co-ordination Committee expressed “unanimous and unequivocal” resentment toward this notice, viewing it as a reflection of the bench’s disregard for the bar.
The committee has formally resolved that members of the Bar abstain from their professional duties starting from 10:30 AM on May 11, 2026.
