Advocates Association Bengaluru Stages Protest
The Advocates’ Association Bengaluru (AAB) took a demonstrative stand on Wednesday outside the Karnataka High Court’s Golden Jubilee Gate, voicing concerns over what they describe as a complete breakdown of court administration in Bengaluru. This protest was directed at the perceived administrative negligence of High Court Chief Justice Vibhu Bakhru.
Members of the AAB gathered for a sit-in demonstration, expressing dissatisfaction with what they consider the Chief Justice’s failure to address longstanding issues regarding court administration and infrastructure across Bengaluru’s courts. Notable figures among the protesters included former presidents DL Jagadish, MT Nanaiah, AN Gangadharaiah, and S Basavaraj, alongside Bar Council of Karnataka members S Harish, Gautam Chand, and Rajanna, as well as former treasurer HMT Ravi, HR Anitha, and U Sandhya Prabhu.
Allegations of Administrative Irregularities
During the demonstration, lawyers conveyed their frustration, stating that their efforts to communicate grievances to the Chief Justice had been met with silence. They highlighted issues of accountability within the justice delivery system, emphasizing that judges from other states appear unresponsive to their concerns.
The AAB accused the Chief Justice of overlooking significant irregularities in court operations. Allegations included the non-acceptance of memos filed by advocates, the failure to list matters for hearing, and instances where judges reportedly dismissed petitions by throwing them at advocates. Additionally, they raised concerns about bench clerks and court staff assuming control over administrative duties that should be handled by legally qualified personnel.
Concerns Over Court Infrastructure
The protest also highlighted dissatisfaction with the state of infrastructure in various courts, including the city civil court, magistrate courts, and Mayo Hall courts. The association criticized the judiciary for not cooperating adequately to enhance infrastructure, despite contributions from the Bar, leading to inconvenience for both lawyers and litigants.
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Women Advocates Raise Sanitation Issues
Women advocates participating in the protest voiced specific issues regarding inadequate sanitation facilities in subordinate courts. They reported having to share restroom facilities with their male counterparts, resulting in uncomfortable waiting times for female lawyers.
AAB president Vivek Subba Reddy and general secretary HV Praveen Gowda emphasized that the protest was symbolic, warning that failure to address these issues could lead to more vigorous actions. “Lawyers are frustrated with the problems they face every day. Those expected to fulfill their responsibilities are acting irresponsibly. Some judges and magistrates are looking down upon lawyers. Today’s protest is only symbolic. If the issues are not resolved immediately, we will have to consider the next course of action,” they asserted.
