The Delhi High Court on Monday directed the Delhi Police to take strict action against any individual—lawyer or non-lawyer—who attempts to obstruct or disturb the upcoming elections of the Shahdara Bar Association, scheduled for May 9. The directions were issued by a Full Bench comprising Justice Prathiba M. Singh, Justice Navin Chawla, and Justice C. Hari Shankar.
“In case any disturbance is caused by any group of individuals, either lawyers or non-lawyers, the police shall be free to take strict action to ensure that no disturbance or obstruction is caused on smooth conduct of elections,” the Court ordered.
The directive came while hearing an application filed by Justice Talwant Singh (Retd.), Chairperson of the Shahdara Bar Association Election Committee, seeking directions for conducting the elections in both online and offline modes due to concerns over inadequate security.
Security Assurances by Police
During the hearing, the Delhi Police, represented by the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) of the concerned area, assured the Court that adequate security arrangements would be in place for May 9 and 10. The DCP confirmed that the arrangements would ensure that the elections proceed as per the prescribed format.
The Court reiterated that the police would have full authority to act against any person attempting to interfere with the conduct of the elections. Contesting candidates present in court gave undertakings to cooperate with the Election Committee and ensure peaceful elections without causing any hindrance to voters or officials.
Mandatory Voter Verification and Surveillance
The Bench further directed that only those lawyer-voters who carry proximity cards would be allowed entry, after due verification by the police. It also mandated that the election area be placed under CCTV surveillance, with one live feed to be provided to the DCP for real-time monitoring and response, if necessary.
Use of EVMs and Ballot Security
Regarding the use of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), the Court allowed the Election Committee to approach Delhi University or any other appropriate body to arrange for EVMs. Counsel for Delhi University assured that, subject to availability, EVMs would be provided as they had been in previous bar elections, such as those for the Dwarka Bar Association.
The Court also instructed that police personnel must safeguard the ballot boxes after polling concludes.
Restricted Access on Counting Day
On the day of counting, the Court imposed strict access control measures, directing that only the contesting candidates and one authorised representative each would be allowed within the Karkardooma Courts premises. All other individuals, including supporters, are to remain outside the court campus.
Background
The matter arose in the context of a batch of petitions where the High Court had earlier issued directions for holding elections across various bar associations in Delhi. Elections for most associations were completed on March 21, 2025, except for those at Saket and Shahdara, which were postponed due to logistical and administrative reasons.
