The Delhi High Court Bar Association (DHCBA) has officially called for a bi-monthly strike, directing its members to abstain from work on the first and third Saturdays of every month starting April 4, 2026. The resolution, passed unanimously by the association’s Executive Committee, serves as a formal protest against a recent Delhi High Court mandate that designated these days as regular working days for the court.
The decision marks a significant escalation in the growing friction between the Delhi High Court administration and the legal fraternity regarding the judicial calendar.
The Shift to Saturday Sittings
The conflict stems from a notification issued by the Delhi High Court on January 15, 2026, which effectively increased the number of working days by including the first and third Saturdays. Previously, these days were typically non-working, allowing advocates time for chamber work and administrative tasks.
According to a notice dated April 2, 2026, signed by DHCBA President, Senior Advocate N Hariharan, and Honorary Secretary Vikram Singh Panwar, the bar association has made “multiple representations” to the High Court seeking a reconsideration of this policy. However, the leadership noted that no relief or modification has been granted by the court authorities to date.
Concerns Over Professional Efficiency and Well-being
The DHCBA’s Executive Committee, following a meeting on March 27, emphasized that the new schedule imposes “practical challenges” that could undermine the quality of legal representation. The association highlighted several key areas of concern:
- Preparation and Consultation: The revised schedule is expected to disrupt the time advocates usually dedicate to case research, drafting, and essential client consultations.
- Work-Life Balance: Members expressed that the lack of a full non-working weekend would adversely impact their productivity and mental health, given the high-pressure nature of the legal profession.
- Professional Efficiency: The Bar argued that “overall professional efficiency” would suffer if practitioners are not given adequate time to manage their offices outside of court hours.
Protest Strategy and Court Functioning
To register their protest while minimizing complete chaos in the justice delivery system, the DHCBA has proposed a strategic arrangement. The association suggested that “proxy counsels” be designated for each court on the affected Saturdays.
This measure is intended to ensure a basic level of representation for urgent matters while the majority of the Bar collectively abstains from regular proceedings.
Looking Ahead
The DHCBA has reiterated its plea to the Delhi High Court to revisit the January notification. The committee expressed hope that the concerns of the legal community would be given due consideration “in the larger interest of the legal community.”
As of now, the first day of the planned “abstention from work” remains April 4, 2026.
